Prescribing, control, and administration of medications

Evaluate why prescribing, control, and administration of medications is a major area of legal concern for health care providers. What is the impact of medication errors to the patient and the health care provider? Discuss ways doctors make mistakes in prescribing medication. What kinds of errors do nurses make regarding the administration of medications?

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Sample Answer

Prescribing, control, and administration of medications is a major area of legal concern for health care providers because medication errors can have serious consequences for patients. In the United States, medication errors are estimated to cause between 100,000 and 250,000 deaths each year.

The impact of medication errors can be devastating for patients. Medication errors can cause serious injury or death, and they can also lead to long-term health problems. In addition, medication errors can cause financial hardship for patients, as they may have to pay for additional medical care or treatment.

For health care providers, medication errors can also have serious consequences. In some cases, providers may be sued for malpractice if a medication error causes a patient harm. In addition, providers may face disciplinary action from their licensing boards or employers.

Full Answer Section

There are many ways that doctors can make mistakes in prescribing medication. Some common errors include:

  • Prescribing the wrong medication: This can happen if the doctor misreads the patient’s chart or if the patient misunderstands what the doctor said.
  • Prescribing the wrong dose: This can happen if the doctor makes a calculation error or if the patient’s weight or other factors are not taken into account.
  • Prescribing a medication that is contraindicated for the patient: This can happen if the doctor is not aware of the patient’s allergies or other medical conditions.
  • Prescribing a medication that interacts with another medication the patient is taking: This can lead to serious side effects or even death.

Nurses can also make mistakes in the administration of medications. Some common errors include:

  • Giving the wrong medication: This can happen if the nurse misreads the medication label or if the medication is not properly labeled.
  • Giving the wrong dose: This can happen if the nurse makes a calculation error or if the medication is not properly measured.
  • Giving the medication at the wrong time: This can happen if the nurse misreads the medication order or if the patient’s schedule changes.
  • Giving the medication to the wrong patient: This can happen if the nurse does not properly identify the patient or if the patient’s name is not on the medication label.

Medication errors can be prevented by following proper prescribing and administration procedures. These procedures should include:

  • Double-checking all medication orders: This should be done by both the doctor and the nurse.
  • Using medication error-reduction tools: These tools can help to prevent errors by providing clear and concise medication orders and by reminding nurses of important safety precautions.
  • Educating patients about their medications: This should include the name of the medication, the dosage, the frequency of administration, and any potential side effects.

By following these procedures, health care providers can help to prevent medication errors and protect their patients from harm.

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