Medication errors can have serious consequences for patients, ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening situations. When these errors occur, it is important to determine who is responsible. In the state of Illinois, medical professionals can be held accountable for medication errors in certain circumstances. By understanding when medication errors can be addressed through medical malpractice claims, patients who have experienced these issues can make sure they will be able to address the harm they have suffered due to the negligence of medical professionals.
Incorrect Dosages
One common type of medication error is the administration of drugs at the wrong dosages. This can occur when a healthcare provider prescribes a drug at the wrong dose, a pharmacist dispenses the wrong amount of a drug, or a nurse administers a medication incorrectly. A dose that is too high may result in serious side effects or other health issues, while a dose that is too low may not adequately address a person’s medical issues. If a patient suffers harm as a result of receiving an incorrect dosage, the medical professional responsible may be held liable for the error.
Medical professionals have a duty of care to their patients, which includes prescribing and administering medications correctly. When a healthcare provider fails to meet this duty, and a patient is harmed as a result, they may be considered negligent. In cases of incorrect dosages, negligence can be established if it can be proven that the medical professional deviated from the standard of care expected in their field.
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