Quality Improvement Project to Reduce Drug-Related Problems (DRPs) and Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIMs) in Geriatrics Cardiac Clinic in Saudi Arabia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5770/cgj.22.338Keywords:
cardiac, drug-related problems, geriatrics, potentially inappropriate medicationAbstract
Background
Elderly people have a high risk of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) and drug-related problems (DRPs) due to polypharmacy, physical and mental limitations, pharma-cokinetic, and pharmacodynamics changes.
Purpose
To determine the role of geriatric pharmacists in reducing drug- related problems and potentially inappropriate medication.
Methods
The observational study was conducted from October 2014 to October 2017 to show the prevalence of DRPs, and PIMs. A total of 375 geriatric cardiology patients (aged ≥ 65) were recruited from Geriatrics Cardiac Clinic in Saudi Arabia. AGS Beers Criteria 2012 and STOPP/START Criteria were used to view the impact of services directed by clinical pharmacists in decreasing DRPs and PIMs including medication review, intervention, and education to junior physicians during multi-disciplinary rounds (MDRs) and by sending e-mail alerts.
Results
DRPs were found in 29.6% of patients and PIMs were found in 19% of patients. After medication review, 25% required interventions and the majority (89%) of interventions were accepted by the managing team. DRPs were found in 14.9% of patients and PIMs were found in 9.6% of the patients. DRPs and PIMs were reduced almost by 50% by reviewing the files and educating the involved physicians.
Conclusion
This prospective study confirms a high prevalence of DRPs and PIMs in Saudi elderly cardiac patients.
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Authors contributing to the Candian Geriatrics Journal retain copyright of their work, with exclusive publication rights granted to the Canadian Geriatrics Society upon article acceptance. Read the journal's full copyright and open access policy.