I read some article I got significantly concerned. More then1 million people are injured annually in the United States following so-called "medication errors". This is very disturbing, don’t you think? It is very rare situation in which I relay on doctor’s advice 100%. I just don’t trust them completely, even though they graduated medical schools. Anyway, I am very keen to know what most common medication errors are. Thanks in advance.
I know about this. I read a study conducted by the FDA and it seems that the most common error involving medications was related to administration of an improper dose of medicine. Giving the wrong drug and using the wrong route of administration are also errors. Almost 50% of the fatal medication errors occurred in people over the age of 60. It seems that older people may be at greatest risk for medication errors because they often take multiple prescription medications.
FYI
You need to know your medications including meds given inside of hospitals. Any medication/ herbal supplement can be dangerous, even the ones you can get over the counter. You need to safeguard yourself by knowing your medications. You can even keep a list of them with you.
When given prescription meds always ask what it is for. If the pill looks different than the one you are getting, say something. If it is an unusual time to get a medication you are use to getting at a certain time, say something. A good nurse, doctor, pharmacist will answer med questions and be able to tell the person what it is for ( even look it up to give specifics). They will also, sometimes be able to change the times on medications.
Remember, you have the right to refuse a medication
You need to know your medications including meds given inside of hospitals. Any medication/ herbal supplement can be dangerous, even the ones you can get over the counter. You need to safeguard yourself by knowing your medications. You can even keep a list of them with you.
When given prescription meds always ask what it is for. If the pill looks different than the one you are getting, say something. If it is an unusual time to get a medication you are use to getting at a certain time, say something. A good nurse, doctor, pharmacist will answer med questions and be able to tell the person what it is for ( even look it up to give specifics). They will also, sometimes be able to change the times on medications.
Remember, you have the right to refuse a medication