What to Know About Medication Errors

medication

Medication is supposed to help you to control diseases and in many cases to feel better. But unfortunately, errors with medication are extremely common. Medication errors are one type of medical negligence affecting those in New Mexico. Since medication errors often result in negative consequences they represent many of the medical malpractice cases each year.

U.S. Medication Errors

According to a 2017 study, approximately 1.5 million medication errors occur in the United States each and every year. This is equivalent to a medication error every 21 seconds or 4,300 medication errors each day. As you can imagine, these errors account for one of the most widely conducted patient-related mistakes across medical facilities such as hospitals. 

You don’t have to be in a hospital to be likely to experience a medication error. Medication errors occur not only inpatient but also in those who are outpatient. Since medical errors often go undetected for a period of time, it often causes more injury or harm to the patient. 

Consequences of Medication Errors

While not everyone who experiences a medication error will become extremely sick, they often serve to make existing medical conditions, diseases, or illnesses worse. Sometimes they create new health issues and unfortunately, at times they may even prove deadly.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Medication Errors?

When you have been injured due to a medication error, it’s important that you hold those responsible for your injuries accountable. You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s mistakes. There are a variety of health care professionals and facilities that may be held liable for your damages due to medication error. In some cases, there may even be multiple defendants. Medical malpractice lawsuits due to medication errors may hold the following liable:

  • Physicians
  • Nurses
  • Physicians Assistants
  • Hospitals
  • Pharmacists
  • Pharmacies

When someone has been the victim of a medication error, it’s important that they understand their legal rights so that they can choose how they wish to proceed. Regardless of the specifics, it’s in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced New Mexico Medical Malpractice attorney who has experience with medication error cases. 

MPJ Law Firm Can Help Those in New Mexico Who Have Been Injured Due to a Medication Error or Other Forms of Medical Malpractice

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed due to medical malpractice, such as a medication error, it can be devastating. When you are already dealing with so much, the last thing on your mind is dealing with the legalities of the situation. 

At MPJ Law Firm, we will always act in your best interest and work to help you receive the compensation that you deserve. Even though it can’t make up for what has happened, it can help you to move forward with your life. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

Posted in: Medical Malpractice