What is an example of a common medication error?

Dispensing the wrong dosage of a medication is indeed a common medication error that can have serious repercussions for patient safety. Accuracy in dosage is crucial because the effectiveness of medication can be greatly influenced by the amount administered. A dosage that is too high can lead to toxicity and adverse effects, while a dosage that is too low may result in ineffective treatment, allowing a condition to worsen.

In pharmacy practice, it is essential to have systems in place to minimize these risks, such as double-checking medications before dispensing, using technology like bar code scanning, and maintaining clear communication among healthcare providers. Medication errors like incorrect dosages are a significant concern and are frequently addressed in training and policy development within healthcare settings to ensure patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes.