Medication errors: why they happen and what you can do

Medication errors: why they happen and what you can do 

There are thousands of prescription and over-the-counter medications, and health supplements used by people to treat their health issues. However, due to this variety, medication complications and risks of drug interactions exist. This can leave patients with physical and psychological pain and suffering. 

Click here to learn more about claims for medical misdiagnosis. 

Read on as we unpack the types of medication errors and what to do next.  

What is a medication error? 

Although the definition of medication errors can differ it usually relates to when the incorrect type or dose of medication is given, or if the medication is given at the wrong time. 

Medication errors can cause considerable harm or result in death, so it is vital to seek medical treatment or advice as soon as possible. 

Medication error statistics 

According to the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia there are 250,000 hospital admissions every year that occur as a result of medication-related problems. This has an annual cost of $1.4 billion dollars and approximately 50% of this harm is preventable. 

The impacts of wrongful medication dosage and errors in Australia: 

• Medication-related hospital admissions: an additional 400,000 presentations to emergency departments are likely due to medication-related problems. 

• After hospital discharge: over 90% of patients have at least one medication-related problem after being discharged from the hospital. 

• Residential aged care: over 50% of residents in aged care facilities are exposed to at least one potentially inappropriate medicine. 

Community: 1.2 million Australians have experienced an adverse medication event in the last 6 months. 

Types of medication errors and dosages 

Every medication carries its own risks and side effects, therefore it is essential to get the prescription, dispensing and usage right to avoid potentially serious consequences. 

Common types of medication errors: 

• Prescribing errors; 

• Failing to prescribe, dispense or administer a medication; 

• Incorrect timing – receiving a medication too late or too early; 

• Incorrect dose prepared or indicated on the prescription; 

• Improper use of a medication; 

• Failing to account for the patient’s medical conditions or the potential drug interactions; 

• Failing to follow the prescribing or dispensing rules for a medication; and/or 

• Administration or manual handling errors (e.g. a patient being given a medication not intended for them). 

Consequences of giving the wrong medication – what to do next 

If you have been incorrectly prescribed a medication or have taken a medication out of routine, seek medical advice or treatment as soon as possible. 

If you or your loved one has been impacted by a medication error that was the result of someone else’s actions, you can make a complaint to your state’s Health Ombudsman or seek advice from a specialist lawyer about your options. 

Whilst compensation cannot restore your health, it can help to provide you with services and funding that means you can lead a better quality of life with as much independence as possible. 

Our client story: Mr Jones 

The situation 

Mr Jones* was taking two types of medication for a minor heart condition. He was starting to run low on his medication so he went to the pharmacy to fill the script. Unbeknownst to Mr Jones, the pharmacist put the labels on the wrong bottles, which meant Mr Jones took the incorrect dose of each medication for three weeks until he collapsed. 

As a result, Mr Jones suffered a stroke. The incorrect dosage of his medications lowered his blood pressure and heart rate to dangerous levels. 

The outcome 

Mr Jones suffered irreparable harm because of the medication error. He now has weakness down one side of his body which affects his balance, mobility and dexterity. 

These injuries mean he cannot look after himself or his property or enjoy social and recreational activities like he used to. Now, he has to rely on his family to assist him with all activities of daily living. 

How we were able to help 

Shine’s expert Medical Negligence team helped Mr Jones to understand his rights and helped him through each step of the legal process. By settling his claim, Mr Jones can now afford to pay for professional care to release his family from that role and buy the equipment he needs to become more independent again. 

(name changed for anonymity) 

Medication error – what to do next 

If you have been incorrectly prescribed a medication or have taken a medication out of routine seek medical advice or treatment as soon as possible. 

If you or your loved one has been impacted by a medication error that was the result of someone else’s actions, you can make a complaint to your state’s Health Ombudsman or seek advice from a specialist lawyer about your options. 

Whilst compensation cannot restore your health, it can help to provide you with services and funding that mean you can lead a better quality of life with as much independence as possible. 

Shine Lawyers – we’re here to help 

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a medication error, you may be able to make a medical negligence compensation claim. A successful medical negligence claim can help you to access the financial, care and support services that you and your family need to heal, and move forward with your life. 

Our team of medical negligence lawyers are experts in this highly specialised area of law and have a unique understanding of both the legal and medical intricacies of a medical negligence claim. 

We will help you to understand your rights and access your full entitlements, ensuring you receive the very best outcome for your situation. 

To get started, click on the enquire now button below or speak to one of our experts over the phone for a no-obligation chat. 

Sources: https://www.psa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/PSA-Medicine-Safety-Report.pdf 

Sources

1. https://www.psa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/PSA-Medicine-Safety-Report.pdf