medication errors causes of patient injury

medication errors causes of patient injury

Medication errors are one of the most preventable causes of patient injury, although its incidence varies in different healthcare settings. The sources and avoidance of medication errors are multifactorial and multidisciplinary.Healthcare providers and patients and/or their caregivers have their respective roles to play in reducing the occurrence of medication errors.Patients and/or their caregivers can do so by knowing the medicines, understanding and adhering to instructions, monitoring the effects of the medicines and ensuring there is good communication between patients and their healthcare providers.Dr Milton Lum is a member of the board of Medical Defence Malaysia. This article is not intended to replace, dictate or define evaluation by a qualified doctor. The views expressed do not represent that of any organisation the writer is associated