engleski

The prevalence of drug therapy problems in the elderly placed in a nursing home

Introduction: Older people, due to their age-related changes in pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy, are more susceptible to experiencing drug therapy problems (DTPs) 1, 2. With the lack of data on DTP profile of the elderly living in Croatian nursing homes, identification and resolution of DTPs could be crucial in improving health care of the elderly. Aim: To determine the prevalence and type of DTPs in the elderly placed in a nursing home. Materials and methods: A prospective observational study was conducted from February to June 2016 in the nursing home “Sv. Kamilo de Lellis”, Vrbovec. Home residents were eligible for the participation if they had at least two regular prescription medications and signed informed consent. Residents’ data were retrieved by a careful review of resident’s medical records, and through the interview with the resident, or health care professionals. DTPs were classified according to the Pharmacotherapy Workup Method proposed by Cipolle, Strand and Morley (2012), where DTPs were grouped into indication, effectiveness, safety, and adherence. Results: Sixty-seven residents were included in the study with a median age (range) of 78 (57-96) years. On average residents used 7 (2-16) medications and had 4 (1-10) comorbidities. The total number of 276 DTPs was identified (mean = 4.1 ± 2.0 per patient). Tramadol, potassium and lactulose were the most frequently used medications related with DTPs. The most prevalent DTP was the ‘‘Needs additional drug therapy’’ (n = 60 ; 21.7%), followed by the ‘‘Adverse drug reaction’’ (n = 50 ; 18.1%) (Figure 1). Conclusion: High prevalence of DTPs among elderly in a nursing home emphasizes an irrational drug use in a nursing home, thus implying an important role pharmacists could play by identifying, preventing and resolving DTPs.

nursing home ; elderly ; therapy problems

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