A medication error refers to a mistake that occurs in the prescribing, dispensing, or administering of a medication. These errors can happen at any stage of the medication process and may involve incorrect dosages, wrong medications, or improper administration routes. Such errors can lead to adverse effects, ineffective treatment, or even serious harm to patients. Common causes of medication errors include miscommunication among healthcare providers, lack of patient information, and distractions during medication preparation. To reduce the risk of these errors, healthcare facilities implement safety protocols, such as double-checking prescriptions and using technology like electronic health records and automated dispensing systems.