Physicians have a duty to obtain and review a patient’s full medical history before prescribing and administering drugs to a patient. Yet, according to research, medication errors harm an estimated 1.5 million people each year costing in excess of $3.5 billion annually. When the patient is a pregnant mother, prescribing the wrong medication can have serious and potentially deadly consequences for both the mother and fetus.
As an experienced Greenville, SC medical malpractice lawyer, Bobby Jones has a proven track record of advocating on behalf of victims of obstetrical malpractice. If you or someone that you know has suffered an injury as a result of being prescribed or administered the wrong medication and/or dosage, contact Bobby Jones Law to discuss your rights and options.
Common Types of Medication Errors
Medical providers may prescribe, administer, or dispense the incorrect medication for a broad range of reasons. For example, a pharmacist responsible for filling a prescription may misread the dosage or even provide the patient with the wrong medication.
Some common types of medication errors include:
- Prescribing or administering the wrong dosage or medication. Physicians are required to properly diagnose the mother’s condition. Failing to do so is negligent and can result in the mother taking the wrong medication.
- Prescribing or administering too much of a medication resulting in an overdose. An example of this in a hospital setting might be medical staff negligently providing the patient with too much pain medication through an IV line.
- Prescribing or administering a medication that the patient is allergic to. Physicians are required to obtain and analyze the patient’s complete medical history. If they fail to do so, the mother may be prescribed medication that she is allergic to.
- Rendering improper medication instructions
- Failing to advise and counsel the patient about the use of the medication and potential side effects
- Giving medication meant for one patient to another patient
If you or a loved one has suffered from a medication error related injury, it is important to seek legal counsel from an experienced Greenville, SC medical malpractice lawyer.
Common Medication Errors in Pregnancy
Prescription medications are commonly used to induce labor, expedite the delivery process, and treat the mother’s pain. If these medications are not administered properly, the mother and baby can be seriously injured or die. Some common medication errors in pregnancy include:
- Prescribing too much Pitocin. Pitocin helps treat frequent and painful contractions. Prescribing too much can lead to internal bleeding and deprivation of oxygen to the fetus.
- Negative reaction to Cytotec. Cytotec is an anti-inflammatory medication that can result in injuries such as hemorrhaging, uterine rupture, or the increased risk for an emergency C-section.
- Negligence in administering anesthesia. Complications from anesthesia can include serious birth injuries to the fetus as well as heart and respiratory issues in the mother.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Greenville, SC Medical Malpractice Lawyer
If you or someone you know has suffered an injury due to a South Carolina medical provider’s negligent actions, it is important to consult with an experienced Greenville, SC medical malpractice lawyer to discuss your rights and remedies. Bobby Jones Law has a proven track record of helping obstetrical malpractice victims and their loved ones to recover the compensation that they deserve. We proudly serve clients throughout South Carolina from our office conveniently located in Greenville. Please contact us for a FREE consultation.