Tag: Patient rights

While it may seem that a pharmacist changes a prescription, they cannot unilaterally 'override' a doctor's order. Their role is to act as a crucial safeguard, verifying safety and accuracy before dispensing medication, and always collaborating with the prescribing physician when issues arise.

Medication errors impact over 7 million US patients every year, underscoring the critical need for safety protocols. To mitigate this risk, healthcare professionals rely on a comprehensive safety checklist known as **What are the 5 plus 5 rights of medication administration?**, an expanded framework built upon the foundational five rights of drug delivery.

Did you know that in most cases, your new pharmacy handles the entire prescription transfer process for you? This guide breaks down exactly **how do I transfer all prescriptions from one pharmacy to another**, ensuring a smooth transition without interrupting your medication schedule.

According to the Institute of Safe Medication Practices, preventable adverse drug events can occur, making a smooth transition essential when you switch pharmacies. This guide outlines the straightforward process to ensure continuity of care, covering everything from initiating a transfer to managing special medication circumstances.

PRN medication errors can account for a significant portion of medication errors in clinical settings, highlighting the critical nature of understanding who decides when a PRN drug is given. This decision is not made by a single individual but involves a careful, collaborative process among the healthcare team and the patient to ensure safety and therapeutic effectiveness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), medication errors harm an estimated 1.5 million Americans annually. Yes, a doctor can prescribe too much medication, a dangerous form of medical negligence that can lead to adverse drug events, dangerous drug interactions, dependency, and even death.

While there is no specific law criminalizing the administration of a placebo, the legality hinges entirely on the principle of informed consent. A doctor giving a placebo to a patient without their knowledge is acting unethically and may face legal consequences, especially if harm occurs.

According to the DEA, pharmacists have a "corresponding responsibility" to ensure prescriptions are for a legitimate medical purpose, especially for controlled substances. When a pharmacist flags a prescription, it initiates a protocol to investigate potential issues, ranging from simple verification errors to more serious concerns like drug diversion. Understanding **what happens if a pharmacist red flags you** can help you navigate the process calmly and effectively.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, approximately 90% of rheumatoid arthritis patients use methotrexate at some point in their treatment, but many face valid reasons for hesitation. So, **what if I don't want to take methotrexate**? Understanding your alternatives and the potential consequences is crucial for making an informed decision with your healthcare provider.

Medical assistance in dying (MAiD) involves the careful use of medication to bring about a peaceful end of life for eligible individuals [1]. The specific drugs and protocols employed can vary depending on the jurisdiction and method of administration. This article provides a general overview of what drugs are used during MAiD and the different approaches taken in this process [1].