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Medication use in nursing homes for elderly people
International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry
|August 8, 1998
Summary
Elderly residents in care homes often receive multiple medications, leading to potential harm from inappropriate prescriptions, especially psychotropic drugs. Improving medication management is crucial for patient safety and cost-effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Elderly residents in nursing and residential homes frequently experience polypharmacy.
- Inappropriate medication prescription, particularly psychotropic drug overuse, is a significant concern in this population.
- Iatrogenic disorders can arise from complex medication regimens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate medication use in nursing and residential home residents.
- To specifically address the issue of psychotropic drug prescribing in this demographic.
- To raise awareness regarding inappropriate medication prescription and potential adverse outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on medication use in elderly care settings.
- Analysis of studies highlighting psychotropic drug overuse.
- Examination of legislative impacts on psychotropic drug prescriptions.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests significant overuse of psychotropic drugs in elderly care residents.
- Legislation, such as in the USA, has shown effectiveness in reducing neuroleptic prescriptions for behavioral disturbances.
- Non-pharmacist involvement in medicine management can enhance patient care and be cost-effective.
Conclusions:
- There is a need for improved awareness and identification of methods to prevent inappropriate medication prescribing in care homes.
- Optimizing medication management, including the judicious use of psychotropics, is essential for resident well-being.
- Interventions involving non-pharmacists show promise for safer and more efficient medication practices.