Lessons to Be Learned from Past Errors

The following advice, based on real errors that have happened, comes from ISMP’s medication safety newsletters. ISMP also offers specific tips on safe medication use in children.

For more information on subscribing to Safe Medicine, ISMP’s newsletter that teaches consumers how to become active partners with their healthcare practitioners and take a leading role in preventing errors, visit the newsletter section of this website.

How to Administer or Take Medications

• Eye drops or ear drops? Don't let this common mix-up happen to you!
• To chew, OR not to chew? Patient dies after chewing medication
• The importance of counseling when you fill a prescription: a cautionary tale
• Preventing throat ulcers caused by Fosamax
• Problems with using medication patches correctly
• Why it's important to read the labels of your medications
• Common misuse of scabies/lice medication can be dangerous
• Improper use of medication suppositories
• Penny wise/pound foolish? Breaking tablets to save money may be dangerous
• Teaspoon v. tablespoon: what's the difference?
• Caution! Dose cups that come with nonprescription drugs are unique for each product

Other Cautions

• Advice for patients with poor eyesight: how to avoid a "sticky" situation
• Hold the phone…there may be problems with cell phones in the hospital
• Family intervention on home IV saves a life
• Caution urged when taking herbal ‘medications’
• Preparation and instruction needed for care at home
• Have a prescription? Talk to a pharmacist for safety
• Speak up for better patient care!
• WELLBUTRIN OR ZYBAN: What's in a name?
• Always know exactly what you put in your mouth
• OTC drug names--is what you see really what you get?