While struggling with a serious disease, patients in Texas have to rely on their medical care providers to ensure they receive proper treatment. Without medical training, it may be difficult for a patient to recognize medication errors. However, a recent study looked at the prevalence of errors related to medication involving patients receiving antituberculosis drugs.
The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. Researchers looked at 72 patients who were receiving tuberculosis treatments because it was either confirmed or suspected that they had the disease. As part of the study, researchers examined national guidelines related to the treatments as well as guidelines related to patients receiving treatment for both tuberculosis and HIV.
Of the patients studied, researchers determined that 62 percent experienced some sort of error related to the medication they received for tuberculosis. The most prevalent error related to incorrect dosage, primarily related to miscalculations of medications related to body weight. Of those also receiving treatment as a result of an HIV infection, seven were victims of errors relating to drug interactions. The vast majority of these errors were not corrected while the patient was hospitalized.
The study ultimately concluded that there must be greater diligence when prescribing medications related to the treatment of tuberculosis. Unfortunately, medication errors are not limited to those patients receiving treatment for issues related to tuberculosis. Errors related to prescribing or administering an incorrect dosage, failing to prescribe a needed treatment and overlooking potential drug interactions, among others, can have serious consequences. Those in Texas who are suffering as a result of such mistakes have legal options available to them. A consultation with an experienced medical malpractice attorney can help these victims choose the most appropriate course of action for their individual situations. Consultation service from the Maloney lawyers is free. Contact us today to get started.
Source: empr.com, "TB Therapy-Related Dosing Errors Happen Often, Study Finds", Jan. 20, 2016
