clinical pharmacology
Drug Errors
Patient error
Drug error often results from a patient’s confusion about how to take drugs. Patients may take the wrong drug or dose. Dosing instructions for each drug, including why the drug has been prescribed, should be completely explained to patients and given in writing when possible. They should be advised to ask their pharmacist for additional advice about taking their drugs. Packaging should be convenient but safe. If children will not have access to the drug and patients may have difficulty opening the container, drugs do not need to be provided in childproof containers. 