Other medication errors are the result of allergic or adverse reactions. Doctors should be aware of any allergies the patient may have to a particular medication or if the patient is already on another medication that could be dangerous when mixed.
Additionally, certain medical conditions such as liver disease or kidney dysfunction may need to be taken into consideration before giving a patient medication. Doctors have a duty to ensure the medication they prescribe is safe, or they may be held liable for any damages the medication error causes through a Kentucky medical malpractice claim.
In children, the wrong medication can be a result of not taking into account a child's age and weight. There are requirements based on age and weight that must be considered before administering medication to a child, since an overdose can be fatal.
Medical Negligence in a Kentucky Medical Malpractice Claim
Healthcare professionals are aware of the risks involved when it comes to medication errors, so they should be well versed in how to prevent them. They are expected to follow what is known as the "5 R's" which help to avoid devastating consequences as a result of being given the wrong medication.
The "5 R's" ensure the following are carefully followed:
When there is a failure to follow these guidelines and it results in injuries to a patient, it is a form of medical negligence. The responsible doctor, nurse or other healthcare provider can be held liable through a Kentucky medical malpractice claim for such medication errors.
Damages for medication errors that may be recoverable through a Kentucky medical malpractice claim include medical and hospital expenses, pain and suffering, disability, emotional distress and other injury-related suffering an individual has experienced due to negligence.
Consulting with a medical malpractice attorney in Louisville should be your next step if you sustained an injury due to prescription or administration of the wrong medication.
Contacting a Medical Malpractice Attorney in Louisville
A medical malpractice attorney in Louisville at Gray and White Law can help you handle every aspect of your Kentucky medical malpractice claim. If you've been injured in Kentucky, contact us today for a free evaluation of your case - 1-800-634-8767 or 502-210- 8942.
Gray and White Law
713 E Market St
Louisville, KY 40202
Phone: 502.210.8942
Fax: (502) 618-4059
Toll Free: 888.450.4456
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