Are You the Victim of A Common Medical Error?

When you go to a healthcare facility, you expect to receive competent care. Healthcare providers in Michigan are human, which means they occasionally make mistakes.

Some medical errors are more common than others, meaning you should look out for them the next time you receive medical treatment. With help from U.S. News & World Report, you have a better idea of whether you have a medical error case on your hands.

Unnecessary blood transfusions

Blood transfusions are undoubtedly vital to saving lives, but they come with their own share of risk when deemed inappropriate. For instance, there is a chance a patient can develop a disease or infection, or even die, as the result of an unnecessary blood transfusion. Ask why you need a transfusion in the first place.

Errors in medication administration

Patients sometimes receive the wrong type of medication, or an incorrect dose of the right medication. You can avoid becoming a victim of a medication error by double-checking to see what prescription you need to take, when you need to take it and why you need it in the first place.

Too much oxygen

There is no such thing as too much oxygen, right? There is for premature babies. Too much oxygen can lead to avoidable medical complications in premature infants. Parents of premature babies should ask if hospital staff follow current guidelines regarding how much oxygen to give infants.

Infections

Negligent hospital staff members can cause infections while attempting to take care of patients. Your doctor, nurse or other healthcare professional should wash her or his hands each time before tending to you. Do not be afraid to speak up for your own peace of mind and health.

This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.