Doctors and physicians have the education and experience to write prescriptions for common drugs to help patients recover from illness, reduce pain, and help treat injuries. Unfortunately, prescription errors may occur and the effects can range from mild discomfort to severe illness or injury to the patient. Some instances of prescription drug errors have even resulted in the death of the patient, and many of those cases were the direct result of missed allergic information or improper prescriptions.
Although the average patient is usually not qualified or experienced enough to write medical prescriptions, there are a few things individuals can do to ensure they receive the proper treatment. Proper education, communication, and double-checking received information may help avoid tragic errors in your medical care.
Steps to Take to Avoid Errors
o Always be forthcoming with your doctor about any previous medical treatments, allergies, and medicines you are currently taking. This information may be essential in ensuring your prescription does not include harmful ingredients.
o Clarify instructions if you are unsure of the doctor's orders. Many patient injuries are the result of over-dosage or other misuse of prescription drugs.
o Ask your doctor any questions you may have about possible side-effects and alternate medicines if you are uncomfortable with the prescription being given.
o Get a second-opinion if you are unsure if the plan of action is going to be effective for you.
Although the average patient is usually not qualified or experienced enough to write medical prescriptions, there are a few things individuals can do to ensure they receive the proper treatment. Proper education, communication, and double-checking received information may help avoid tragic errors in your medical care.
Steps to Take to Avoid Errors
o Always be forthcoming with your doctor about any previous medical treatments, allergies, and medicines you are currently taking. This information may be essential in ensuring your prescription does not include harmful ingredients.
o Clarify instructions if you are unsure of the doctor's orders. Many patient injuries are the result of over-dosage or other misuse of prescription drugs.
o Ask your doctor any questions you may have about possible side-effects and alternate medicines if you are uncomfortable with the prescription being given.
o Get a second-opinion if you are unsure if the plan of action is going to be effective for you.
