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Can a Nursing Home Be Liable for Injuries Caused by Medication Errors?

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Can a Nursing Home Be Liable for Injuries Caused by Medication Errors?

Navigating the complexities of nursing home care can be stressful, especially when faced with the unsettling prospect of a loved one suffering due to a medication error. Though not always mentioned, these incidents are alarmingly prevalent and can lead to life-altering consequences. But is the nursing home always at fault? And what actions can you take if you believe your loved one has been harmed by a medication mistake?

In this post, Roy Injury Law reveals when and how a nursing home can be held liable for medication errors.

Understanding Medication Errors in Nursing Homes

A medication error involves any preventable event that could result in the wrong use of medication or harm to the patient. This includes various mistakes like giving the wrong doses or the incorrect medication while under the care of health professionals or by patients themselves.

In nursing homes, where residents often require multiple medications and have complex medical histories, the risk for medication errors is significant. It’s estimated that between 7,000 to 9,000 deaths occur each year in the United States due to medication errors in nursing homes. These errors can result from negligence or human error on the part of nurses, physicians, pharmacists, or other staff members.

When Is a Nursing Home Liable for Medication Errors?

Determining liability for medication errors in nursing homes can be complex and requires an in-depth examination of the incident’s circumstances. Generally, a nursing home can be held liable if it can be proven that:

  • The resident was harmed as a result of the medication error.
  • The nursing home’s staff or administration failed to adhere to the accepted standard of care in administering medication.
  • The medication error was a direct result of negligence, inadequate training, or understaffing on the part of the nursing home.

If these elements can be proven, you may be able to hold the nursing home liable for the resident’s injuries.

What to Do if You Suspect a Medication Error in a Nursing Home

If you believe your loved one has been harmed due to a medication error in a nursing home, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Document the incident: Record all relevant information regarding the medication error, including the time and date, names of staff members involved, and details of the medication given.
  2. Notify the nursing home: Inform the nursing home’s administration of your concerns and request a meeting to discuss the incident.
  3. Seek medical attention: If your loved one has been negatively affected by the error, seek medical attention to address any potential health consequences.
  4. Call an attorney: Consider contacting a personal injury attorney with experience with cases involving nursing home negligence, neglect, and medication errors.

Holding Nursing Homes Accountable

Ultimately, a nursing home can be held liable for injuries caused by medication errors if they fail to provide the accepted standard of care in administering medication. If you believe your loved one has been harmed due to a medication error, it’s crucial to take immediate action and reach out to Roy Injury Law today for a consultation. Our seasoned attorney can lead you through the legal process and fight for your loved one’s right to proper care.

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