Medication and pharmacy errors are serious issues that can lead to significant harm. These errors occur in various scenarios, each potentially dangerous to patients relying on accurate prescriptions for their health and well-being. Miscommunication between medical professionals and pharmacists, similar drug names or packaging that lead to confusion, and a failure to review a patient’s full medical history for allergies or contraindications can result in a patient getting the wrong medication.
These errors can occur at any stage from prescribing to dispensing and can significantly impact a patient’s health. Anyone that believes that they or a loved one was the victim of a medication error is wise to learn about these mistakes and potential legal remedies. Three of the most important things to know are discussed below.
#1: These mistakes are not uncommon
Unfortunately, this serious error is not an uncommon mistake. If you or a loved one is a victim, know that you are not alone.
Research shows that certain factors can put a patient at higher risk of a medication error. One of the most alarming is an increased risk for those who receive multiple medications. Patients are wise to become familiar with their medications, to recognize the labeling and even the look of the medication so they can spot a potential error before it causes injury.
#2: Medication mistakes can lead to serious injuries
The consequences of medication and pharmacy errors can be severe. Common injuries include can include allergic or adverse reactions as well as chronic health problems or worsening of existing conditions due to ineffective medication. In serious cases, the wrong medication can be fatal.
#3: Legal remedies are available
Victims of medication or pharmacy errors can hold the medical team accountable for their failure to provide quality care. This can result in compensation to help cover the cost of medical expenses due to the error, lost wages if the error leads to an inability to work, and pain and suffering caused by the medical setback.
Those who wish to move forward with such a claim are wise to keep documentation of the events that led to the error. This can include records of all prescriptions, receipts, and medical records.
Patients are wise to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their medications and pharmacy interactions. By understanding the common scenarios that lead to errors and knowing the legal remedies available, individuals can better protect themselves and their loved ones and pursue justice if an error occurs.