In 2000, the Institute of Medicine came out with a devastating report on health care errors. Last week, a new panel of the Institute of Medicine issued its report on medication mistakes, which is a huge problem. We speak with the co-chair, Dean Linda Cronenwett, about the committee’s conclusions. More at http://www.iom.edu/Object.File/Master/35/943/medication%20errors%20new.pdf
When it comes to safety, acetaminophen is usually considered the top pain reliever. But a recent study has shown that some people taking the maximum recommended dose of this analgesic develop elevated liver enzymes. This is usually considered a sign of liver toxicity. We talk with one of the scientists who conducted the study.
Swimmers’ ear is a common complaint for kids, especially in the summertime when they are in and out of the pool all day long. Pediatricians have been given new guidelines on treating this condition, and Dr. Alan Greene explains them.
We take calls about prescription drugs, healthy eating, home remedies, and dietary supplements.
Guests: Linda Cronenwett, PhD, RN, FAAN, is Dean of the School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She co-chaired the Institute of Medicine Committee on Identifying and Preventing Medication Errors.
Paul Watkins, MD, is professor of medicine and director of the General Clinical Research Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Alan Greene, MD, is founder and CEO of drgreene.com and Stanford University Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics. His book is From First Kicks to First Steps: Nurturing Your Baby’s Development from Pregnancy Through the First Year of Life.www.drgreene.com
