Reducing Healthcare Mistakes and Increasing Patient Safety

Nearly 100,000 people die each year as the result of medical mistakes. This can mean the hospital or medical facility lacked necessary information for caring for the patient, the physician administered a drug that caused an allergic reaction, or the patient was simply not cared for properly due to overcrowding or a misdiagnosis. While this is bound to happen at times, because no one is perfect, healthcare mistakes and patient deaths can certainly be reduced.

One way to improve patient safety and quality healthcare is by ensuring that doctors and medical professionals are aware of any and all medications patients are on. This is mostly up to the patients. So, when visiting a clinic or hospital for an accident, illness, or health problem, it is imperative to divulge all information regarding medications and drugs. This allows medical professionals to determine what medications cannot be taken to avoid adverse reactions with the current medications. Even all herbal supplements and vitamins should be clarified to avoid health problems.

Quality and performance improvement in healthcare is also dependent upon following doctor instructions. For instance, if a physician tells a patient to avoid all alcohol and caffeine, then the patient must follow these orders to ensure he or she is safe and does not experience bad reactions or further health problems. Too often patients do not follow the doctor’s direct instructions.

Another way to encourage healthcare quality improvement is by informing doctors and hospital staff members of any allergies and past health problems that apply. Past surgeries, health disorders, and medication allergies need to be addressed. It is quite common for patients to leave information out, which is a serious mistake that could lead to serious complications or health problems. Patients should take the time to mention all symptoms and health issues that concern them as well. This can help doctors fill in the blanks and better assess the health condition.

It is imperative to know how and when to take a prescribed medication. This can often determine how effective the medication works. Patients should be sure to ask the doctor or pharmacist questions if uncertain. It is also important to verify the prescription drug name with the doctor before leaving the hospital. Sometimes pharmacists cannot read the writing. Although quality initiatives in healthcare are being taken seriously by hospitals and physicians, patients need to take them seriously as well. After all, the patients can also help reduce common healthcare mistakes and improve patient safety.