Who Should Report an Error?

Don't Confuse Desiccants with Medicine in Cresemba Blister Packs

Confusing Labels on Iron Supplements: A Problem That Still Needs to Be “Ironed” Out

Measurement Mishaps with Liquid Medicines

Unlike medicines for adults, medicines for babies and young children often come in a liquid form. Thus, parents and caregivers must measure the correct amount of liquid medicine before giving each dose to their child. Many over-the-counter (OTC) liquid medicines come with a plastic dosing cup, oral syringe, or dropper to help measure a dose. A pharmacist may provide a dosing cup or oral syringe with liquid prescription medicines. However, a study published in October 20161 shows that parents often struggle with measuring the exact dose of liquid medicine and make errors frequently.

Parents Staying with Their Hospitalized Child Can Help Detect Some Errors—But May Contribute to Others

Today, parents can often visit and stay with their sick, hospitalized child whenever they want. Many parents take advantage of this and remain with their child as much as possible, getting more involved in their child’s care. For an ill child, this can be comforting and provide an important emotional benefit, which might lead to faster healing as well as long-term behavioral benefits.1 For the parents, this can lead to less stress, anxiety, and sadness. 1