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Pharmacists' poison prevention advice to the elderly
J N Walburn1, B E Benson, M Burga
1University of Nebraska Medical Center, Mid-Plains Poison Control Center, Omaha.
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Pharmacists often offer child-resistant containers, but seniors frequently choose non-child-resistant ones. Targeted poison control education for the elderly could significantly reduce childhood drug ingestions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Gerontology
Background:
- Childhood ingestions are a significant concern, with a notable percentage occurring in grandparents' homes.
- The elderly population plays a role in medication access for children, highlighting the need for targeted safety measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the poison prevention practices of pharmacists concerning elderly individuals in Nebraska.
- To identify potential gaps in pharmacist counseling and material distribution for poison prevention among older adults.
Main Methods:
- A mailed anonymous questionnaire was distributed to 1544 registered pharmacists in Nebraska.
- The survey focused on pharmacists' practices regarding child-resistant containers, counseling, and availability of poison prevention materials for the elderly.
Main Results:
- 75% of responding pharmacists offered child-resistant containers, but 65% estimated seniors chose non-child-resistant options.
- Over 50% of pharmacists did not actively counsel or distribute poison prevention materials to the elderly.
- Only 9% of pharmacists specifically advised older adults on poison prevention.
Conclusions:
- There is a missed opportunity for pharmacists to actively engage the elderly in poison prevention strategies.
- Enhanced pharmacist education and targeted interventions for older adults could substantially decrease childhood drug poisonings.