Understanding medication errors in nursing homes: abuse or neglect?

Medication errors in nursing homes can severely affect residents’ health and well-being. While not all errors amount to abuse or neglect, they must be addressed to protect vulnerable individuals in these care facilities.

Keep reading to learn more about medication errors in nursing homes.

Types and causes of medication errors

Medication errors can occur in various ways, such as prescribing the wrong medication, administering incorrect doses, neglecting drug interactions or failing to provide medication. Factors contributing to these errors include insufficient staff training, poor communication and complex medication regimens for multiple residents.

Differentiating abuse, neglect and errors

Knowing the difference between abuse and neglect is important if you have a loved one in a nursing home.

• Abuse: Abuse entails intentional harm or mistreatment. Medication errors alone may not constitute abuse unless there is evidence of deliberate intent to harm residents.
• Neglect: Neglect refers to a failure to provide adequate care. Medication errors may be considered neglect if they stem from systemic failures or consistent disregard for established protocols within the nursing home.

Family members are crucial in preventing medication errors for their loved ones in nursing homes. They can actively participate by maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, keeping an updated medication list, double-checking prescriptions, and ensuring proper storage and administration of medications. Their involvement promotes safety and enhances overall care quality.

While not all medication errors in nursing homes amount to abuse or neglect, they must be taken seriously due to their potential impact on residents’ well-being. Combating medication errors necessitates a comprehensive approach. You have legal options if you believe your loved one was a victim of abuse or neglect while in a nursing home. Knowing what