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Medication Errors in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, & Group Homes

A noted indicating a medication error in a nursing home.

What is a Medication Error?

 

The National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention defines a medication error, in part, as “any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in the control of the healthcare professional, patient, or consumer.”

 

How Medication Errors Happen in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living Facilities, & Group Homes

In long-term care settings, including Florida nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes, medication errors are alarmingly common. These mistakes often result from rushed staff, poor communication, or failure to follow basic medication administration protocols. The consequences can range from minor side effects to serious injury or death.

Common medication errors include:

  1. Administering the wrong medication.

  2. Administering the wrong dosage.

  3. Administering the medication at incorrect frequencies.

  4. Failing to administer medications (e.g., missed dosages).

  5. Administering medications to the wrong resident.

  6. Failing to comply with medication administration protocols (e.g., to be taken with food, to be taken at night, to be taken upon the occurrence of specified occurrences).

  7. Failing to properly document medication administration.

  8. Failing to report signs and symptoms of adverse reactions to prescribed medications.

When Does a Medication Error Become Neglect?

Not every medication error rises to the level of abuse or neglect under Florida law. To pursue a legal claim, the error must cause actual harm, whether physical, emotional, or both. Examples include uncontrolled symptoms and/or infections, overdose, withdrawal effects, allergic reactions, or hospitalization due to improper medication handling.

Contact FIDJ for a Free Case Review

 

If you believe your loved one was injured by a medication error at a nursing home, assisted living facility, or group home, contact the experienced attorneys at FIDJ for your FREE case review

*The information contained herein is not medical advice.

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