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Published on: September 30, 2020

Adverse drug reaction-related hospitalizations of nursing facility patients: a 4-year study

J W Cooper1

  • 1Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, USA.

Southern Medical Journal
|May 26, 1999
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) lead to hospitalizations in over 15% of nursing home residents. Polypharmacy and unaddressed patient history significantly increase the risk of these preventable events.

Area of Science:

  • Geriatric Medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Patient Safety

Background:

  • Nursing facility residents are a vulnerable population for adverse drug reactions (ADRs).
  • Hospitalizations due to ADRs represent a significant burden on healthcare resources and patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To document the incidence and types of adverse drug reaction-related hospitalizations in a nursing facility setting.
  • To identify risk factors associated with ADR-related hospitalizations in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A 4-year prospective observational study involving 332 nursing facility residents.
  • Monthly reviews of drug regimens and resident health status were conducted.
  • Probable ADRs were reported to attending physicians and charge nurses.

Main Results:

  • 15.7% of residents experienced 64 ADR-associated hospitalizations.
  • Common causes included NSAID use, psychotropic-related falls, digoxin toxicity, and insulin hypoglycemia.
  • Residents hospitalized for ADRs were on significantly more medications (polypharmacy) compared to non-ADR residents.

Conclusions:

  • Adverse drug reaction-related hospitalizations are common in nursing homes, affecting approximately one in seven residents.
  • Polypharmacy and failure to consider patient history (contraindications, previous ADRs) are key contributing factors.
  • Interventions targeting medication review and patient history are crucial for prevention.

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