Blood thinners cause seven percent of medication errors
As experienced malpractice attorneys in Riverside, California, we’re always keeping an eye on the medical industry for any updates that may involve the health our clients and local community.
A recent article from Medical News Today caught our attention, highlighting the impact blood thinners have on medication errors.
Blood thinners are traditionally prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by preventing the development of blood clots in the arteries and veins of patients.
An anticoagulation management system must have a reliable way of tracking patients receiving blood-thinning therapy as well as of showing their medical records with patient-care resources in the health care system.
Research recently published in the Annals of Pharmacotherapy revealed that blood thinners account for around seven percent of medication errors in hospitalized patients.
Unfortunately, many of these medication mistakes are caused by a physician’s lack of knowledge about a patient’s medication or condition.
It is so important that an anticoagulation management system provides staff training and an ongoing educational development for all personnel involved in the care or therapy of a patient.
There is also a great need for physicians to educate patients on blood thinners. This includes face-to-face teaching, group training sessions, and providing written and audiovisual materials that explain blood thinners, how they should be properly used and administered, and the risks involved.
Physicians should also schedule timely follow-up care as well as continued communication with the patient.
Blood thinners can help many patients if administered correctly with proper education and caution. As with any medical treatment or drug, blood thinners can be dangerous to a patient if they are given in incorrect dosages or mixed with incompatible drugs.
If you have any questions about blood thinner errors or any medical malpractice issues, contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney.
