Medical Errors and Patient Safety: Tips to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

March 9-15, 2025, is Patient Safety Awareness Week — a vital reminder to reflect on patient safety and work together to improve healthcare outcomes. Medical errors remain a significant and alarming issue, ranking as the third leading cause of death in the United States, with an estimated 400,000 patients a year experiencing a preventable medical error. These errors can have devastating consequences, but being proactive and informed can help you reduce the risks to yourself and your loved ones. (Remember, you are your own best advocate in navigating the complexities of today’s healthcare system!)

Here are some practical steps you can take to reduce the risk of medical errors:

• Ask questions: Never hesitate to ask healthcare providers about your diagnosis, treatment plan, or medications. Request clarification if something isn’t clear. Don’t worry about being annoying — keep asking until they make it clear. Understanding your care can help you make informed decisions and catch potential mistakes.
• Double-check medications: When you’re prescribed a new medication, verify the name, dosage, and purpose with your doctor or pharmacist. Ensure it doesn’t conflict with any existing medications or allergies. Keep an updated list of all prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs you or your loved ones are taking. If you or the loved one is under hospital care, be aware of dosages and times and check to ensure these are being followed — especially during nurse shift changes.
• Bring an advocate: If possible, bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments, especially when you’re facing serious medical decisions. They can listen, take notes, and ask additional questions you might not think of in the moment. You can also authorize your advocate to monitor your progress and discuss your situation with healthcare staff when you’re under anesthesia.
• Stay observant during hospital stays: If you or a loved one is admitted to a hospital, stay vigilant. Confirm that all staff follow proper hygiene practices, such as washing their hands before providing care. Question any unfamiliar procedures and ensure all treatments align with the care plan.
• Understand consent and rights: Make sure you fully comprehend any procedure or treatment before giving consent. Remember, it’s within your rights to seek a second opinion if you’re uncertain about a healthcare recommendation.

Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of suffering from preventable medical errors. Have you or someone you love been harmed due to lapses in patient safety? Our attorneys are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options for seeking justice and compensation.