10 Tips to Avoid Medication Mistakes in the Elderly
If you have an elderly relative, you may have noticed some changes in their behavior since their younger days. While some people can enter their eighties hale and hearty, many experience forgetfulness or absent-minded tendencies that are just opportunities for prescription drug accidents to happen. Seniors often take multiple medications throughout the day, some with food, some more than once. How can you help a loved one keep her medications straight? Print this list of ways to avoid senior medication errors and put it up somewhere she will see it often:
When you fill a prescription, read the information on the label back to the pharmacist to check for mistakes.
Try to fill all your prescriptions at the same pharmacy.
Don’t be afraid to ask the pharmacy staff questions; they’re there to help you.
Always read any patient information attached to your medication.
Keep all medication in its original containers, and keep them in the same place in your home.
If your medication looks different than usual or you experience side effects, always call your doctor.
Never share or take another person’s medication, even if it is the same prescription as your own.
If you are admitted to the hospital, make sure your nurse verifies your identity before giving you any medication.
Make sure your doctor and pharmacist are aware of any dietary supplements or over-the-counter medications you are taking and any drug allergies you may have.
Keep a running list of all your medications. Include your date of birth, drug names, dosages, instructions, pharmacy information and doctor’s name and phone number. Hand this list out to a trusted family member at least once a year.
As board-certified pharmacy error attorneys, we know that you only want the best for your parents and grandparents. That’s why we’ve written a book on dealing with medication mistakes, How to Make Pharmacies Pay for Injuries Caused by Medication Errors, which we offer FREE of charge. If you or someone in your family was injured by a medication error, call Kennedy Hodges at 888-526-7616 today for a free consultation on your case.
