Problems related to errors  and reaction to medications are responsible for more than 7000 visits to the emergency room every year. These errors usually involve pain and fever medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

Ways to prevent medications errors

These tips will help you reduce the risk of medication errors .

• keep medications out of reach of children
• make sure medication containers have a childproof cap
• cold medications usually have multiple medications mixed together. It is important to remember that single medications are best to avoid confusion
• it is essential to check the medication’s expiration date. Expired medication can be harmful
• sometimes children complain about sickness such as stomachaches  or headaches just to get attention. Watch for symptoms before giving medication

Dosing safety

These tips will help you give the right dosage of medication to your child

• give the correct dose by measuring out the exact dosage
• use  a medical syringe or dropper to measure the correct amount . They are more reliable than  a measuring spoon
• give the medication at the prescribed time. If you forget a dose, give it as soon as possible and  give the next dose at the right time following the late dose
• give medication that are used to treat symptoms such as a cold only when needed and never to children under 2 years. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
• be cautious about over the counter medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns
• dont use fever reducing medications casually

Food and medication

You have to know the following :

• it is best not to mix medication with food. This is because it can interfere with the medication’s effectiveness or dilute the dose
• if you mix medication with food or liquid, all must be taken
• seek your doctor or pharmacist’s  advise before mixing medication with food or liquid
• you may  give your child something to drink afterwards to help with the taste.

How to help your child take medication

You can help your child take medications by doing the following :

• you can make your child suck on a popsicle before taking a medication that doesn’t have a good taste. This will numb the taste. You can also offer the child her favorite drink to wash it down
• if your child is taking an essential medication such as prescription medication, you need to help the child take it and be firm about it
• if your child needs to take medication at school or daycare, talk to the school director about it