Prevent – Medication Errors
The # 1 thing you can do to help prevent medication errors is to have a complete detailed record of everything your loved one takes for any condition — and then keep it up-to-date with all medications prescribed in the hospital.
By “medication” we mean just about anything taken by mouth (except food) delivered through a patch, needle or tube. This list includes some things that may surprise you: nicotine patches, cold or allergy remedies, vitamins, herbal supplements, diet aids—even aspirin. It’s important for doctors to know the type and quantity of alcohol consumed on a daily basis, too.
Medication errors may occur, too, when patients don’t disclose all the prescriptions they take for fear of revealing an abuse problem — or if they fail to reveal the use of illegal recreational drugs.
Helping your loved one pull together a complete record may cause friction… may be uncomfortable… may feel like a violation of privacy. But think about it, the human body is all about chemistry. Prescriptions, too. You really don’t want your loved one’s care reduced to an experiment because, without the right data, it’s just trial and error.
The solution? Simple Checklists!
Every patient needs someone with them in the hospital to be their "quarterback for care" -- but very few of us are prepared.
Download CampaignZERO's.
free e-book of checklists to help you learn...- What to look for
- What to do
Please share!
More Help for YOU!
Connect With Us
Take a look at our guide for patients and families!