New Jersey Medication Error Lawyers

Representing Patients Who Have Suffered as a Result of Pharmacy Negligence

Medication errors are one of the most preventable yet common forms of medical malpractice. These errors can lead to serious health complications and, in the worst cases, even death. At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, we understand the devastating impact that medication errors can have on patients and their families. Our dedicated New Jersey medication error lawyers have the experience, knowledge, and compassion to help victims of medication errors seek justice and fair compensation. We stand by your side, fighting for your rights and holding responsible parties accountable.

To schedule a free consultation, call (800) 817-5029 or complete our online contact form today.

What is a Medication Error?

A medication error occurs when a mistake is made in prescribing, dispensing, or administering medication. This includes errors involving dosage, frequency, timing, or even the type of medication given to a patient. Medication errors can happen in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, pharmacies, and even at home under the supervision of healthcare providers. Such errors are not only preventable but also often the result of negligence, which can have devastating health consequences for patients.

Here are some of the most common types of medication errors:

• Incorrect Dosage: The wrong dosage—either too much or too little—can lead to serious consequences. An overdose might cause toxic side effects, while an underdose might render the medication ineffective.
• Wrong Medication: Administering the wrong medication due to mislabeling, similar-sounding drug names, or human error can have severe and unintended side effects.
• Administration Errors: Medications can be administered in various ways, such as orally, intravenously, or topically. Administering a drug incorrectly, such as giving an intravenous medication orally, can lead to serious health risks.
• Failure to Consider Allergies or Interactions: Some medications interact negatively with other drugs, foods, or underlying medical conditions. A failure to check for potential interactions or allergies can result in dangerous or even fatal complications.
• Missed or Delayed Doses: Medication schedules are carefully designed to ensure that drugs work effectively. Missing or delaying a dose can reduce the medication’s efficacy and affect a patient’s health outcomes.
• Labeling and Packaging Errors: Confusion caused by poor labeling or packaging can lead to misinterpretation and improper use of medication.

Common Causes of Medication Errors

Medication errors are usually preventable and are often the result of human error or system failures within healthcare settings. Some common causes of medication errors include:

• Communication Failures: Miscommunication between doctors, nurses, and pharmacists can lead to medication errors. Confusion over instructions or prescriptions can have serious consequences for the patient.
• Poor Documentation: When medical records are incomplete, incorrect, or difficult to read, healthcare providers may make errors in prescribing or administering medication.
• Similar-Sounding Drug Names: Many medications have similar names, which can lead to confusion and errors. For example, the drugs Celebrex (for pain relief) and Celexa (an antidepressant) have similar-sounding names but very different uses.
• Time Pressures and Fatigue: Healthcare professionals, especially those in emergency or high-stress environments, may be rushed or fatigued, increasing the likelihood of medication errors.
• Inadequate Training or Supervision: Insufficiently trained or supervised medical staff may lack the knowledge or expertise to administer medications correctly.

Who is Liable for a Medication Error?

Determining liability in a medication error case can be complex, as multiple parties may be involved in prescribing, dispensing, and administering medications. Common parties who may be held liable for medication errors include:

• Doctors: Physicians are responsible for prescribing the correct medication and dosage. If a doctor fails to account for a patient’s medical history, allergies, or potential drug interactions, they may be held liable.
• Pharmacists: Pharmacists are responsible for filling prescriptions accurately. Errors in filling prescriptions, such as providing the wrong dosage or medication, can lead to liability.
• Nurses: Nurses are often responsible for administering medications in healthcare settings. Errors in administration, such as giving the wrong dose or medication, can make them liable for damages.
• Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: If a medication error results from understaffing, poor communication, or other systemic issues, the healthcare facility may bear responsibility.
• Pharmaceutical Companies: In some cases, pharmaceutical companies may be liable if they fail to label medications accurately or fail to warn about potential side effects and interactions.

At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, we are dedicated to helping victims of medication errors hold negligent parties accountable and obtain the compensation they need for recovery. Our team will listen to your story, explain your legal rights, and work tirelessly on your behalf.

Contact us today at (800) 817-5029 to discuss your legal options with our New Jersey medication error attorney.