While medications can be beneficial, they can also pose risks, especially when seniors are being discharged from the hospital. Prescription review is an essential aspect of senior care that can help ensure that seniors receive the correct medications and the right dosage. We discuss why prescription review is essential when seniors are being discharged.
According to a study published in the Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality, almost 20% of patients experience an adverse drug event within three weeks of leaving the hospital. This highlights the importance of prescription review, especially for seniors who may be more vulnerable to medication-related issues.
The Risks of Improper Medication Use in Seniors
Medications can help manage health conditions in seniors, but they can also cause adverse reactions or interact negatively with other drugs. Seniors may be prescribed a new medication or different dosage, which can be confusing or overwhelming. Seniors may also have difficulty keeping track of their medications, which can lead to missed doses or double-dosing. Improper medication use can lead to adverse drug reactions, hospitalization, or worse, which can have a significant impact on seniors’ overall health and wellbeing.
The Importance of Prescription Review for Seniors
Medication review is an essential aspect of senior care. Prescription review helps ensure that seniors receive the correct medications, in the right dosage, and avoid adverse drug reactions. During prescription review, a healthcare professional reviews a senior’s medication list and provides recommendations for any necessary changes. This process helps ensure that the medications are appropriate for the senior’s health conditions, safe, and effective.
How Prescription Review Works in Senior Care
Prescription review typically involves a healthcare professional reviewing a senior’s medication list, including any over-the-counter medications or supplements. The healthcare professional will check for any potential drug interactions or contraindications and make recommendations for any necessary changes. Furthermore, the healthcare professional may provide education on proper medication use. This includes when and how to take the medication and what side effects to watch for.
The Benefits of Prescription Review for Seniors
There are many benefits of prescription review for seniors, including:
- Improved medication management: Prescription review helps ensure that seniors are taking the right medications, in the right dosage, and at the right time, improving their medication management.
- Fewer adverse drug reactions: Additionally, medication review can help identify and prevent adverse drug reactions, which can lead to hospitalization or worse.
- Better health outcomes: By improving medication management and preventing adverse drug reactions, prescription review can lead to better health outcomes for seniors.
How Eldercare Home Health Can Help
At Eldercare Home Health, we understand the importance of medication review for seniors. Our healthcare professionals can perform medication reviews, including prescription and over-the-counter medications. This ensures that our clients receive the correct medications and dosages. We work closely with our clients’ healthcare providers to provide recommendations and education on proper medication use. Our goal is to improve our clients’ health outcomes and help them live safely and independently at home.
In conclusion, when you discharge seniors from the hospital you need to be vigilant about their medications. Prescription review is essential to ensure that they receive the correct medication and dosages. Home health care providers such as Eldercare Home Health can help seniors and their families navigate the complex world of medication management and provide assistance with tasks such as medication reminders, administration, and review. By working together, seniors can avoid medication errors and enjoy a healthier, more independent life at home.
If you or a loved one needs assistance with medication management or other home health care services, contact Eldercare Home Health today to schedule a free assessment. Our team of experienced caregivers can help you or your loved one stay healthy and comfortable at home.