When we trust hospitals, nursing homes, pharmacies, and healthcare providers in Georgia to care for our loved ones, we expect them to administer medications correctly. Unfortunately, medication errors are far too common and can lead to severe health complications, long-term harm, or even death. When a loved one suffers due to a preventable medication mistake, families may have legal options to seek justice. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys are committed to holding negligent parties accountable.
What Are Medication Errors?
Medication errors occur when a patient receives the wrong drug, incorrect dosage, or inappropriate instructions, leading to harmful consequences. These errors can result from miscommunication, medical negligence, or system failures within healthcare settings.
Some of the most common types of medication errors include:
- Administering the wrong medication.
- Providing an incorrect dosage (too much or too little).
- Prescribing a drug that causes a dangerous interaction with other medicines.
- Failing to check for patient allergies.
- Incorrect labeling or packaging.
- Miscommunication between doctors, nurses, and pharmacists.
Who May Be Held Responsible for a Medication Error?
Determining liability in a medication error case requires a thorough investigation.
Several parties may be responsible, including:
- Doctors and Prescribing Physicians – If a doctor prescribes the wrong medication or dosage, they may be liable for any harm caused.
- Pharmacists and Pharmacies – Pharmacists must accurately dispense medications and ensure no dangerous interactions or contraindications.
- Hospitals and Nursing Homes – Healthcare facilities must have protocols to prevent medication errors. Failure to enforce these policies can make them legally responsible.
- Nurses and Caregivers – Nurses and caregivers who administer medications must follow prescriptions correctly. Any deviation from proper administration procedures can result in liability.
- Drug Manufacturers – The pharmaceutical company may be held accountable if a medication is mislabeled, defective, or improperly packaged.
Legal Options for Families of Victims
Families of those harmed by medication mistakes may pursue legal action to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to the error.
- Ongoing treatment and rehabilitation costs.
- Pain and suffering endured by the victim.
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one passes away due to a medication error.
Depending on the circumstances, a medical malpractice claim or wrongful death lawsuit may be appropriate. Our legal team at Ashby Thelen Lowry thoroughly investigates each case, gathering medical records, expert testimony, and witness statements to build a strong claim on behalf of our clients.
How Ashby Thelen Lowry Can Help
Medication errors can cause irreversible harm, and families deserve justice when a loved one suffers due to a preventable mistake. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys provide compassionate and aggressive representation for victims and their families. If your loved one has suffered due to a medication error, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights.