How Many Discharged Patients Need to Return to the Hospital After Surgery Due to the Mismanagement of Their Medications?
Every year, millions of people undergo surgery in the United States. While most of these surgeries are successful, a significant number of patients need to return to the hospital after their surgery due to complications. One of the most common reasons for readmission is the mismanagement of medications.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the mismanagement of medications after surgery. Patients may not be taking their medications correctly, or they may not have enough medication to last them until their next doctor's appointment. In some cases, patients may not even be aware that they need to continue taking their medications after surgery.
The mismanagement of medications can have a number of negative consequences. Patients who are not taking their medications correctly may not heal properly, or they may experience complications such as infection or pain. In some cases, patients may even need to be readmitted to the hospital.
There are a number of things that can be done to prevent the mismanagement of medications after surgery. Patients should make sure that they understand their medication regimen, and they should ask their doctor or nurse any questions that they have. Patients should also make sure that they have enough medication to last them until their next doctor's appointment.
Doctors and nurses can also help to prevent the mismanagement of medications after surgery. They should make sure that patients understand their medication regimen, and they should provide patients with written instructions on how to take their medications. Doctors and nurses should also make sure that patients have enough medication to last them until their next doctor's appointment.
The mismanagement of medications is a serious problem that can have a number of negative consequences. By taking steps to prevent the mismanagement of medications, we can help to ensure that patients have a safe and successful recovery after surgery.
Here are some additional tips for preventing the mismanagement of medications after surgery:
- Make sure you understand your medication regimen. Ask your doctor or nurse to explain it to you in a way that you can understand.
- Write down your medication schedule and keep it in a place where you can see it easily.
- Ask your doctor or nurse for a written copy of your medication list.
- Take your medications exactly as prescribed. Don't skip doses or take more than the prescribed amount.
- Don't give your medications to anyone else, even if they have the same condition as you.
- Keep your medications in a safe place where children and pets can't reach them.
- Don't take expired medications.
- If you have any questions about your medications, ask your doctor or nurse.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you take your medications correctly and safely after surgery.
