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How can distractions influence prescription errors?

On Behalf of | Jun 10, 2022 | Medical Malpractice |

Sometimes when you visit a doctor or medical professional, many parts of your visit may seem rushed.

Not only can this be a bad sign for the amount of care you receive, but it can also eventually lead to a prescription error when you go to take any medications they give you. Learning about why these errors happen and how distractions are a part of this problem is important if you are suffering from medical malpractice.

Distractions while writing

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, a doctor who is rushing to finish a written prescription may become distracted during a visit. They may fail to double-check what they write down or to make sure that people can read their handwriting.

When they put a wrong number or an incorrect drug name on the prescription, you and anyone who is filling your medicine may not realize it is even wrong in the first place.

Distractions while giving instructions

Since you often have limited time to talk, sometimes the discussions you have with your doctor can feel unhelpful or confusing. Another staff member or someone else could end your conversation early and leave you without the proper information.

Distractions can contribute to this confusion when it comes to verbal instructions. Your doctor may fail to describe the correct method to take your pills or how you often you need to take a dose.

Distractions while answering questions

When you have less time to ask questions, you may not get a complete answer from your doctor. They may also mishear and answer the wrong question in some circumstances.

Prescription errors can happen because of many issues, but distraction is one of the most common ones.