Evidence-based nursing to reduce polypharmacy risks in older cholecystectomy patients

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Surgical Nursing
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Aging populations present challenges in managing multiple chronic diseases and polypharmacy in older adults post-cholecystectomy.
• Complex medication regimens increase the risk of medication errors and adverse drug reactions.
• Effective nursing interventions are crucial for ensuring medication safety in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of evidence-based nursing interventions in reducing polypharmacy-related risks in older patients undergoing cholecystectomy.
• To provide clinical guidance for optimizing medication management in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 60 older patients with polypharmacy post-cholecystectomy.
• Patients were assigned to either routine nursing care or evidence-based nursing interventions.
• Outcomes measured included medication knowledge, competence, adherence, and incidence of medication errors and adverse reactions.

Main Results:

• The evidence-based nursing group demonstrated significantly higher post-intervention scores in medication knowledge, management competence, and adherence compared to the control group.
• Incidences of duplicate medication, missed doses, and unauthorized alterations were significantly lower in the evidence-based nursing group.
• The study group exhibited a lower adverse reaction rate and a reduced potential medication hazard level post-intervention.

Conclusions:

• Evidence-based nursing is effective in mitigating polypharmacy risks among older adults undergoing cholecystectomy.
• This nursing approach enhances patient medication awareness, management skills, and adherence.
• Implementing evidence-based nursing can decrease adverse medication behaviors, reactions, and overall patient risk.