Can I File a Lawsuit for Medication Errors?
While you might not think that a medication error is the most serious form of medical malpractice, they’re actually one of the most egregious, especially since they are often the most preventable.
When a doctor prescribes you a medication, you trust that they have done their due diligence and prescribed you a medication that will not only help you but one that will not create an adverse effect or dangerously interact with any other medication you’re taking. Unfortunately, when the wrong medication is given to a patient, it can result in catastrophic injuries and even death, especially if it mixed with another drug it shouldn’t have. Continue reading to find out if you can file a lawsuit for medication errors in the state of Pennsylvania.
Read more: Medication And Medical Malpractice: What You Need To Know
What Are the Most Common Types of Medication Errors?
Since a medication error can occur at any point throughout the production, prescription and distribution process, they can occur in a variety of ways. These include:
- Prescribing and/or giving the wrong dosage to a patient
- Administering the wrong medication to a patient
- Failing to properly provide instructions on how to use the medication and/or failing to warn of any potential side effects
- Prescribing the wrong medication to a patient
Read more: Children And Drug Errors That Occur In Hospitals In Washington, PA
Who is Liable for a Medication Error in Pennsylvania?
Depending on the circumstances of how the medication error occurred, there may be several parties you can hold accountable in a medical malpractice lawsuit. These include but aren’t limited to:
- The pharmacist or pharmaceutical company
- The prescribing doctor
- A nurse
- Hospitals and/or nursing homes
Those who work in the medical industry owe a duty of care to their patients. When they fail to do this, they can – and should – be held liable for any injuries that stem from their carelessness.
Read more: What Are The Most Common Acts Of Negligence By A Nurse?
How Long Do I Have to File a Medical Malpractice Claim in Pennsylvania?
If you were injured as a result of a medication error, you have two years from the date the injury occurred to file a medical malpractice claim. This time frame can go by quickly, so it’s best to contact an experienced attorney who can help you file a medical malpractice claim as soon as possible.
Contact a Pittsburgh Medical Malpractice Attorney for a Consultation About Your Medication Error Case in Pennsylvania
Were you or a loved one injured as a result of a medication error in Pennsylvania? Then you need to talk to an experienced medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible for guidance on how to proceed. The Pittsburgh medical malpractice attorneys at Berger & Lagnese, LLC are prepared to assist you with your legal claim. We represent victims of negligent surgeons, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists throughout Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, Erie, Butler, Cranberry Township, Indiana. Call us today at (412) 471-4300 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Our main office is located at 310 Grant Street, Suite 720, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.