Medication Overdose: Tips For Ensuring Medication Safety For Children
When it comes to our children, we want to do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy. That
includes making sure they’re taking the right medications, in the right doses, and at the right times.
Unfortunately, medication mistakes are all too common. In fact, one study found that nearly 60% of
parents made at least one mistake when giving their child medication. Here are some tips to help you avoid
making a mistake:
Read The Label Carefully
When it’s time to give your child medication, it’s important to read the label carefully. Make sure you know
the correct dosage and how to administer the medication safely. If you have any questions about the
medication, don’t hesitate to ask your child’s healthcare provider. They can answer any questions you have
and help you ensure that your child is getting the best possible care.
Use The Right Measuring Device
Don’t eyeball the dose. It’s always important to use the right measuring device when giving children
medicine. Measuring spoons, for example, are not accurate enough to use when giving children liquid
medications. Instead, use a syringe without a needle or an oral dosing cup. And be sure to label the
measuring device with the child’s name, the date, and the time of day the medicine was given. That way,
you can avoid giving your child too much or too little medication.
Give The Medication At The Right Time
Most medications need to be given at specific times throughout the day. Make sure you know when to give
the medication and set an alarm if needed.
Avoid Giving Your Child More Medication Than Prescribed
It’s important to always follow the dosage instructions on your child’s medication label. Giving your child
more medication than what is prescribed can be very dangerous. If you have any questions about the
proper dosage, be sure to ask your child’s healthcare provider.
It’ also important to be careful when giving your child over-the-counter medications. Make sure you follow
the dosage instructions on the label and don’t give your child more than the recommended amount.
Ingesting Too Much Medication
If you think your child may have accidentally ingested too much medication, it’s important to seek medical
attention immediately. Symptoms of medication overdose in children can include:
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sleepiness
• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
If you have any questions about medication safety for children, be sure to talk to your child’s healthcare
provider.