Proper diagnosis is crucial for adequate medical support. People can barely manage their symptoms without a diagnosis, let alone resolve the underlying cause of their medical symptoms. Whether someone has an appointment with their primary care physician or requires an...
Can the wrong dosage cause significant harm to a patient?
Medications are powerful tools for treating and managing various health conditions. But just like any tool, using the wrong amount can have grave consequences. Taking too much or too little medication may cause considerable harm. The dangers of incorrect dosage An...
Children and misdiagnosis: 3 common examples
Failure to provide an accurate diagnosis at the earliest opportunity may cause unnecessary suffering to a patient. This is especially true for children. Misdiagnosis among children is more common than you think, and there are several reasons why. Going to the doctor...
3 forms of medical malpractice that involve opioid drugs
Opioid medications are some of the most useful drugs that doctors can recommend. They are also some of the most dangerous medications currently used to treat patients. Opioids are synthetic pain relievers that are cheaper to use and often stronger than traditional...
Why do medication errors occur?
Errors made in prescribing and dispensing medications take the lives of about 7,000 to 9,000 people each year in the United States alone. This makes medication errors one of the most significant causes of concern in healthcare today. Anyone can make mistakes. However,...
Coronary artery disease is often underdiagnosed in women
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of death worldwide. It’s a significant health risk that is often underdiagnosed in women. This underdiagnosis stems from a combination of factors, including differences in symptom presentation, societal perceptions and...
Why would my doctor fail to order a necessary test?
Your health care provider can only prescribe the appropriate treatment once they accurately diagnose your medical condition. They must order or perform the necessary medical tests to obtain the correct diagnosis. Failure to conduct a thorough medical examination can...
What happens if a doctor misses an appendicitis diagnosis?
The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch projecting from the colon on the lower right side of the abdomen. Appendicitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix. This inflammation is typically acute and can cause severe pain. The exact...
When can allergic reactions be due to negligence?
Before administering treatment or medication, it is critical for doctors to account for patient allergies. While situations vary, failure to do so can lead to acute injuries or life-threatening emergencies. Allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts to...
Why are IV medication errors so common?
When a patient needs medication, proper drug administration is crucial to their well-being. When someone starts in antibiotic regimen, for example, they need a specific dose delivered at a specific interval to ensure that their treatment is as effective as possible....