Federal regulations are in place that require medical facilities to have a medication error rate of no more than five percent. The allowable percentage is just one indication of the widespread problems surrounding the huge number of medication errors that take place in all types of medical facilities. Many elderly residents of nursing homes are on several medications – often five or more. These medications are helpful for prolonging life, but when administered incorrectly or in the wrong quantity can lead to falls, death, delirium and other severe problems.
If your loved one has suffered from a medication error while a resident in a nursing home, connect with Attorney Joel Bryant, a premier Riverside elder abuse lawyer. With the highest possible rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, AV Preeminent®, and with many years of success in serving as an advocate for nursing home residents, Mr. Bryant is prepared to evaluate your case and to assist you in seeking compensation after a loved one has suffered from injury, illness or death from a medication error.
There are various ways a medication error can lead to illness, hospitalization, injuries or death. A recent federal report on adverse events in nursing homes has evaluated the care of those in skilled nursing facilities. Medication errors were found to be far more common in these facilities than the percentage of errors in hospitals. The most common types of medication errors affecting nursing home residents include the following:
The same federal study reported on whether these incidents were preventable, and whether harm could have been avoided. It was shown that almost 60% of adverse events related to medication could have been prevented by simply providing proper, non-negligent care. The types of injuries that can be the result of a medication error include the following:
Has your loved one suffered an illness, condition, a fall, or death after a medication error? It is important that you retain the services of a Riverside nursing home abuse attorney that is highly skilled and experienced in protecting the rights and interests of the elderly. Attorney Joel Bryant and the staff at our firm are prepared to speak with you about your case and how any necessary legal action should proceed.
Contact our firm for more information about filing a claim or lawsuit after a loved one has suffered some form of injury, illness or has died due to a medication error in a nursing home. Call now for a free case evaluation.