Medication Safety

One study showed over 68 percent of medication errors resulted in serious consequences, including hospitalization, disability, even death. It is often simple medication mistakes that lead to such problems. That is especially true among older adults who, on average, are taking five medications daily.

Unlike the average physician, Erickson Health doctors only have two appointments an hour. That allows our doctors to discuss any new prescriptions with patients. We make sure they understand the drug’s name; what it is for; its dosage, and how to take it. That way they can check that they have the right prescription from the pharmacy, and it lessens the chance of them making medication mistakes later.

Following these simple steps will help you avoid dangerous safety problems with your medicines:

√ Do NOT keep medications in the bathroom. The moisture from baths and showers spurs their deterioration.

√ Keep each family member’ medications in a different place. Use color stickers to further distinguish whose medications are whose.

√ If you have pills that look alike, ask your doctor or pharmacist for solutions.

√ If you (or your loved one) are getting medications from more than one source (like the local pharmacy plus through mail-order) make sure your primary care doctor has an updated list of all your drugs and dosages.

√ Make sure your medication list(s) is prominently posted in the house, give a copy to an emergency contact, and carry it when traveling.

√ Do not assume over-the-counter (OTC) drugs or “atural”supplements are safe. They cause problems of their own by interacting with your prescription drugs.

√ If you do take any OTC drugs, read and follow the safety instructions carefully.

√ Natural products aren’ required to list warnings and directions, and most don’ provide that information. It is best to avoid these products unless you have careful instructions from your health professional.