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[The long-term record card, instrument for evaluating prolonged treatments]
M P Arroyo Aniés1, F Cortés Ugalde, J J Cariñanos Chavaque
1Centro de Salud de Chantrea, Pamplona.
Atencion Primaria
|June 1, 1992
Summary
This study assessed the quality of extended drug treatments in primary care. While many medications were appropriate, 35% of patients had potential drug interactions, highlighting a need for prescriber education.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacotherapy
- Primary Health Care
- Medication Quality Assessment
Context:
- Chantrea Health Centre (Pamplona) serves an urban population.
- Long-term treatment records were examined to evaluate medication quality.
- A descriptive crossover study design was employed.
Purpose:
- To assess the quality of extended drug treatments recorded on medical cards.
- To identify potential areas for improvement in medication management within primary care.
Summary:
- A review of 370 record cards revealed an average of 2.93 drugs per person, with higher usage in individuals over 65.
- Key quality indicators showed 78% of medicines aligned with the Primary Care Guide, 83% were orally administered, and 79.5% of patients took a single drug.
- However, 22.7% of records showed concomitant medication, and 35% indicated potential drug interactions.
Impact:
- Findings suggest an acceptable therapeutic level but highlight a significant prevalence of potential drug interactions.
- Emphasizes the need for primary care teams to collaboratively review prescriptions.
- Recommends a training program for local physicians to enhance prescribing practices and patient safety.