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How to prevent medication harm

On Behalf of | Apr 18, 2021 | Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice occurs in Texas in a variety of ways. Delayed diagnosis, misinterpreting symptoms and failing to order needed tests are a few ways that medical error can occur. One of the most common types of medical malpractice in Texas is medication error. Here are ways to prevent medication mistakes.

How can I prevent medication errors?

To prevent medication errors, be sure to give your healthcare providers complete information. Tell them about other medications that you are taking, allergies or problems that you have had with medications in the past. If care providers have lifestyle questions about your levels of sleep, drug and alcohol use or exercise, be sure to give them honest information. Don’t assume that your care providers have access to your medical history or that they have reviewed it. Provide your care team with the information that they need in order to avoid med mal and give you the correct medications and dosages.

In addition to providing complete information, it’s also important to review your records for yourself. Be sure that your medications are labeled correctly. Ask the doctor any questions that you have to be sure that you fully understand what is happening with your treatment. You should know what medication you are taking and why. Be sure to ask what special steps to take or things to be aware of in order to take the medication safely. If anything strikes you as unusual or out of the ordinary, speak up and ask for clarification before proceeding in order to prevent injury and the need for a medical malpractice claim.

Protecting yourself from medication errors

Understanding how to protect yourself from medication errors can help you take the right steps for your health and safety. Open communication with your medical team is important. In addition, reviewing information and questioning things that seem unusual can help you avoid medication mistakes that lead to harm.

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