Common Emergency Room Mistakes

Here are some common emergency room mistakes to look out for when you’re admitted into care. Being aware of what’s going on around you is increasingly important, so be sure to note the details of your care, or have someone with you who can help you.

Insufficient staffing or training of personnel

Failure to administer or prescribe the right medication and/or dosage

Infection caused by unclean work environment or failure to follow standard procedures

Incorrect tests ordered/course of action taken

Incorrectly collected or interpreted lab work or X-rays

Failure to properly monitor patients

Negligence by hospital staff or EMT/paramedic personnel

Some of these errors occur as a result of insufficient or inaccurate medical history. Disclose your prior medical history to doctors or nurses when you are initially treated, and throughout the process, with as much detail as possible.

Attentiveness to your care is also a good way to ensure that your care is given in the best way; so, if possible, take notes (or have notes taken) about the details of your care. Be sure to play as much of an active role in your care as you can, and you may be able to avoid a serious problem stemming from a small mistake.