Medication Safety

Mistakes can happen with your medicine.  Having the right information about your medicines at all times will help prevent mistakes.

Health professionals need to know about all the medicines you use so they can make the right decisions about your health.  Keep track of all of your medicines with a Medication List.  Your doctors, nurse or pharmacist can help you fill it out.  Speak up if you're ever unsure about your medication.

Click HERE to print out a Medication List like the one to the right!

The Boone County Hospital Foundation also has a Medication Card you can print or pick up at the Volunteer Desk at the Hospital.

MEDICATION SAFETY TIPS

• Have your medications reviewed

  • Ask your doctor or pharmacist to evaluate and discuss with you all the prescription and non-prescription drugs you take.

• Tell your doctor about all the drugs you take

  • This includes prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and supplements and will help your provider to avoid dangerous interactions or the possibility that one good effect will cancel out the other.

• Take your medications as directed

  • What time of day?  With food?  With water?  What should I do if I skip a dose by mistake?

• Create a reminder system

  • Use a pill box, calendar, alarm, or smart phone app to remind you that it's time to take your medications.

• Keep a medication record

  • Keep a list, keep it with you, and keep it up-to-date.

  • Don't forget to include drug allergies, vitamins and minerals, herbal/natural products, and all medications including prescription and over-the-counter medications.

• Report side effects promptly

  • Call your doctor if you experience new symptoms that might signal a drug reaction.

• Finish the course

  • Do not stop taking your prescribed medication, even if you are feeling better.  In order for the medication to be completely effective the directions of your prescription should be followed—stopping an antibiotic early may lead to antibiotic resistance!

• Order online with care

  • Before purchasing medications from a mail order pharmacy, ask your provider whether the company is legitimate.

• Don't share your medications with others, or take those not prescribed for you

  • Medication interactions, other health conditions impact how medication is absorbed.

• Don't forget immunizations

  • Ask your provider if you are due for any vaccines.

• More is not alway better

  • Increasing the recommended dose of a medication can be dangerous.  Do not take more than is prescribed or instructed on over-the-counter bottles.