Although
it is not always possible to prevent medical errors and mistakes from
occurring to you or someone you care about, there are steps you can
take that can minimize the risks.
The single
most important means to lowering your risk of medical error is to
take an active role in your health. Being involved in the decision
making process is an important part of this. Studies indicate that
for patients who getting involved in their own health have better
results.
Given
the choice, it is statistically advantageous to select a hospital
that performs a relatively high number of the specific procedure that
you need. This is due mainly to the fact that the equipment, facilities,
and staff are more versed in this procedure or surgery and have experience
with any complications or problems that may arise before during or
after the procedure.
Do not
hesitate to inquire whether healthcare workers have washed their hands
recently. Something as simple as hand washing can prevent the spread
of infectious diseases. A recent study found that when patients checked
whether health care workers washed their hands, the workers washed
their hands more often and used more soap.
When
you are being discharged from the hospital, ask your doctor to explain
the treatment plan you will use at home. This includes learning about
your medicines and finding out when you can get back to your regular
activities. Research shows that at discharge time, doctors think their
patients understand more than they really do about what they should
or should not do when they return home.
Prior
to surgery, once more go over the plan of attack for your surgery.
This is not only a prevention step, but will put you more at ease
with what is about to occur.
While
everyone has heard the stories of wrong-site surgery, it is very preventable
through a simple precautionary step. The American Academy of Orthopedic
Surgeons urges its members to sign their initials directly on the
site to be operated on before the surgery.
Your
physician(s) should always know all of the medications you are taking,
including prescription meds, over-the-counter medicines, and other
dietary supplements (vitamins, herbs, etc.).
Every once in a while, bring all of your medicines into your physician.
Go over them together to rule out any possible bad reactions and let
your physician have a clearer picture of your health status. If nothing
else, it's good spring-cleaning for your medicine cabinet.
Always
inform your physician about any allergies and adverse reactions you
have experienced with medicines. Reactions change over time, as do
medications so it is important to keep he/she as up-to-date as possible.
When
your doctor writes you a prescription, make sure you can read it.
Chances are, if you can't, the pharmacist will not be able to read
it either.
If you
have any questions about the medication being given to you, always
ask. It is important that you understand the information your doctor
tells you. If anything is unclear, ask simple, direct questions
•
What is the medicine for?
• How am I supposed to take it, and for how long?
• What side effects are likely? What do I do if they occur?
• Is this medicine safe to take with other medicines or dietary
supplements I am taking?
• What food, drink, or activities should I avoid while taking
this medicine?
Medicines
that are picked up from the pharmacy should always be thoroughly checked
for accuracy. A study by the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and
Allied Health Sciences found that 88 percent of medicine errors involved
the wrong drug or the wrong dose.
Always
ask specific questions regarding directions on medications you are
taking. Specific directions are not always easy to print on the tiny
labels. It is important that the medication be properly administered
to maximize its effects and prevent any adverse health effects.
Liquid
medicines are often taken in the incorrect amounts. For instance,
if the medication says four teaspoons, people often eyeball it. Special
devices such as marked syringes assist in measuring the proper dosage.
If you
have any questions about the possible side effects for certain medications,
ask your physician or primary healthcare provider. The more fully
aware you are of, the better prepared you will be if side effects
do occur. A study found that written information about medicines can
help patients recognize problem side effects and then inform their
physicians.
Insist
that one person, your personal doctor, be in charge of your healthcare.
While this may not always be possible with HMOs, a little persistence
can often help you see the same health personnel.
A good idea is to have a family member that you trust be your patient
care advocate. This essentially means that they are in charge of watching
the surgery to make sure nothing goes awry. They are your eyes while
you are under. They can prove a valuable witness if something bad
does occur.
Always
inquire as to the outcome of all of your tests. Even if the doctor
does not volunteer the results, they may tell you something that will
help your health in the future. Remember that you know your body better
than anybody.
Learn
about your condition and treatments by asking your doctor and nurse
and by using other reliable sources.
