Tips to Avoid Medication Errors

Medication errors can lead to serious injuries. While patients would like to solely rely upon doctors and pharmacists in making sure they receive the right medication, individuals need to do their part to avoid medication errors.

One of the more common medication errors that can occur is to receive the wrong dosage. This can especially be dangerous with babies and young children.

Here are some tips to avoid medication errors with children: 

• Always check with a doctor before administering medication to your child
• Know what your baby's weight is
• Use a measuring device that is accurate and appropriate
• Keep track of the medication you have given and the times
• Stick to the appropriate timeframe that the medicine should be given  

Children are not the only ones at risk of being injured because of a medication error. Here are some tips that may help you avoid a medication error: 

• Understand what medication you are taking and why
• Know how much and at what time a medicine should be taken
• If you have any questions or concerns about taking a particular medication, ask your doctor
• Ask about any possible side effects as well as any foods, other medications, or other considerations that may negatively interact with your medication
• Share your medical history, other medications you may be on and any current medical conditions (such as being pregnant) 

When in doubt it is best to seek a second opinion or ask further questions.

You can learn more about common medication errors by visiting our article library.

Contacting a Chicago Medical Malpractice Lawyer

At the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C, our Chicago medical malpractice attorneys will examine all aspects of your claim, determine liability, and aggressively pursue the full amount of compensation due to you or your loved one for any injuries or loss of life due to medical malpractice. Contact us today for a free case evaluation - 312-263-1080.