Most people feel safe when they go to the hospital or are with their doctor, but medical error, improper dosing and incorrect prescriptions are a growing concern. The fact of the matter is that these problems have existed for years and by no means are they on the rise. However, with the country’s growing population of elderly and retirement-aged people, as well as actor Dennis Quaid’s recent scare, more attention is being given to this serious issue.

The above linked story from the LA Times cites several statistics but doesn’t provide sources for some of them. These numbers include:

• 1 out of every 10 hospital patients will receive some kind of error at the hospital, from infection to incorrect diagnosis, prescription or dosage.
• Every day, 1 person dies in the U.S. from a hospital error.
• Patients asking doctors and medical staff to wash their hands before performing an examination increased hand-washing rates 50 % at one clinic.
• Paying attention to your wristband, tag or other information and asking doctors to double check and verify your prescription or procedure increases error prevention another 25%

Elderly patients may not have the wherewithal to take such precautions, and as a caregiver you shoud not be afraid to ask as many questions as possible. However, it is also important to keep things in perspective and allow doctors and hospital staff to do their jobs. As such, unnecessary or overprotective behavior might actually be damaging to your loved one as well.

Take some time to review our resources on hospital visits with elderly relatives. Our communication tips are also great for learning ways to simplify protecting your loved one and preserve their health.

Filed under: Doctors & Hospitals, Elder Issues, Health & Safety