Pharmacy errors can have serious consequences, especially when children are involved. At Lebowitz & Mzhen, we understand the fear and frustration you may feel if your child has been harmed due to a pharmacy error. This blog post will help you understand the common types of pharmacy errors involving children and what steps you can take to protect your family.
Common Types of Pharmacy Errors Involving Children
Pharmacy errors can happen in various ways, and when they involve children, the results can be particularly severe. Some common types of errors include:
Incorrect Dosage: Children require different medication dosages than adults. An incorrect dosage can lead to underdosing, which may render the medication ineffective, or overdosing, which can cause severe adverse effects.
Wrong Medication: Dispensing the wrong medication is a dangerous mistake. A child could receive a drug that is intended for a completely different condition, leading to potential allergic reactions or other harmful side effects.
Mislabeling: Proper labeling is crucial for ensuring the right medication is given at the right time. Mislabeling can result in a child receiving the wrong dosage or medication, which can have dire consequences.
Failure to Provide Instructions: Clear instructions on how to administer the medication are essential. Failure to provide these can result in improper use of the medication, reducing its effectiveness or causing harm.
How Do Pharmacy Errors Happen?
Understanding how these errors occur can help in preventing them. Here are some common reasons pharmacy errors involving children happen:
Human Error: Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can make mistakes due to fatigue, stress, or distraction. Even a small error in reading a prescription or measuring a dosage can lead to serious consequences.
System Errors: Sometimes, the systems in place at a pharmacy, such as computer software or organizational processes, can fail. These system errors can lead to incorrect medication being dispensed or labeled.
Communication Breakdown: Miscommunication between doctors, pharmacists, and parents can result in incorrect medication being given to a child. Clear and effective communication is crucial to ensure the safety of pediatric patients.
What Should You Do If Your Child Is Harmed by a Pharmacy Error?
If your child has been harmed due to a pharmacy error, it’s important to take immediate action to protect their health and your family’s legal rights. Here are the steps you should follow:
1. Seek Medical Attention: Your child’s health and safety are the top priorities. If you suspect that your child has received the wrong medication or dosage, seek medical attention immediately. A healthcare professional can assess and treat any adverse effects.
2. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of the medication, including the packaging, labels, and any instructions you received. Take notes on your child’s symptoms and any medical treatment they receive as a result of the error.
3. Report the Error: Contact the pharmacy and inform them of the mistake. Reporting the error can help prevent similar incidents in the future. Additionally, consider filing a complaint with the state pharmacy board.
4. Consult with a Lawyer: A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options. At Lebowitz & Mzhen, we are dedicated to helping families affected by pharmacy errors get the justice and compensation they deserve. We can guide you through the legal process and help you build a strong case.
Pharmacy errors involving children can be a parent’s worst nightmare. If your child has been harmed due to a pharmacy error, know that you are not alone. At Lebowitz & Mzhen, we are here to support you and your family during this difficult time. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how we can help you seek justice and compensation for your child’s suffering. We represent clients in Prince George’s, Baltimore, Charles, and Montgomery counties. To learn more, call us today at 800-654-1949 and schedule a free and no-obligation initial consultation.