Most errors in the use of medicines are potentially preventable. According to the Ministry of Health, in 2014, medication errors in general corresponded to 30% of errors in hospitals. In primary care, it is the main cause of adverse events, especially in children and the elderly.
These errors can be caused by different factors that potentially interfere with the prescription, dispensation, administration, consumption and monitoring of medications, which can cause serious damage to health and even death. This is the reason that you should take the expert opinion before opting for the iHerb Danmark rabatkode now.
Health professional-patient relationship and prescription
Part of the basic principles of the professional health-patient relationship involves transmitting security and confidence to adhere to any health intervention and, consequently, adherence to the conducts described in the prescription. Transparency in the prescription is necessary, with clarifications and availability of the professional in the face of possible adverse reactions and errors. That is why it is essential that patients and health professionals talk openly about the use of medications, clarifying doubts, identifying potential drug interactions and risks involved, as well as the benefits of using any medication that may be necessary.
- The patient, family or caregivers are the last barrier to prevent medication errors. Therefore, it is necessary to invest in the education of the patient, trying to ensure that he has a good knowledge about his health problems and the medications he uses. Be aware of the different information contained in your recipe and ask for clarification regarding aspects that you do not understand. Their understanding is fundamental to the success of the treatment.
What are medicines for?
The medications can be used to prevent, diagnose, treat diseases and also to control signs / symptoms, such as pain, for example. The administration of medications can take place in different places: at home, in clinics and outpatient clinics, in the hospital and also in the pharmacy. Its use should always be done under the guidance of a specialized health professional, as incorrect use can cause serious damage to health.
Inform the health professional of ALL the medications you use, including the natural ones (herbal medicines), vitamins and contraceptives, as the simultaneous use of different medications can interfere with their effect and safety.
- Inform about any unpleasant reactions you have ever experienced when using any medication (dizziness, skin blemishes, insomnia, headaches and others).
- Inform if you are allergic to any medication or substance (dipyrone, sulfas, etc.), as well as if you have a disease (hypertension, diabetes, etc.). It is important that pregnant or breastfeeding women inform the professional, as some medications may be contraindicated.
- Tell the health professional about other habits that may interfere with the use of the medication, such as the use of alcoholic beverages and smoking.
- Important: Report if you have problems swallowing capsules or pills, so the professional can select, for example, the drug in liquid form, if there is a presentation on the market.
- Some medicines have names with similar spelling or sound. Whenever you receive a prescription from a healthcare professional, make sure that the handwriting is legible. When in doubt, ask!
- Never forget that in addition to medications, treatment is also composed of changes in lifestyle (such as diet, physical activity, sleep, body posture, combating stress, etc.). Ask the professional who takes care of you what they are.
