8 Ways to Prevent Child Prescription Errors in Texas

Chronically ill children require many different types of medicines several times a day. Since their parents are usually the ones entrusted to administer them, it is vital that parents keep tabs on all drugs, dosages, and possible interactions to avoid accidentally causing harm to their child.
Whether your child is on a simple course of antibiotics or takes several different prescriptions, a few of these tips can safeguard him from Houston child medication errors:

• Write it down. Never rely on your memory for medication instructions. Always get the name, dosage, and special instructions in writing-especially if you're not the only adult who will be giving the medicine to the child.
• Ask questions. If the label's instructions are confusing or you think they might be wrong, always call your doctor for clarification before giving any medicine to your child.
• Keep it organized. The study revealed that most errors took place in homes where medication was kept in several different locations. Gather all medications in one place, in their original containers, with the labels facing out for clear reading.
• Replace your equipment. If your child's prescription requires a syringe or a medicine cup, replace them often. The dosage markings can easily wear away or be misread over time.
• Make a list. Many Houston prescription error victims did not keep a current list of their medications. Not only should you make such a list, but you should bring it with you to all of your child's doctor appointments.
• Use technology. Don't just rely on a simple weekly pill container to keep track of tablets. Many parents reported using cellphone alarms, digital calendar reminders, and computer spreadsheets to make sure medications were administered on time.
• Always ask your child's doctor before stopping a medication. If your child is experiencing unpleasant side effects, contact your doctor before stopping the drug. There may be an alternative medication that will treat the condition without otherwise affecting your child.
• Watch over independent children. Many mistakes were made in homes where teenagers and adolescents were trusted to take their own medication. These children often overdosed or skipped doses because they didn't keep track of when they had last taken the drug.

As experienced Texas prescription drug error attorneys, we know that parents want only the best for their children. We also know that they cannot be everywhere at once-such as in a busy pharmacy, or watching over a doctor to make sure he writes the correct dosage.
If your child was injured by a medication error, the best thing you can do is to hold the person responsible accountable for his mistake so that it does not happen again. To find out if you could win compensation in your drug error case, call Kennedy Hodges at 888-526-7616 today for a free consultation.