High-Risk Medication Use in Older Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities: Prevalence, Harms, and Strategies to Mitigate Risks and Enhance Use
Janet K. Sluggett, Stephanie L. Harrison, Leona A. Ritchie, Alexander J. Clough, Debbie Rigby, Gillian E. Caughey, Edwin C.K. Tan
Abstract
Older residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs), also known as nursing homes, care homes, or residential aged care facilities, often have multiple health conditions and are exposed to polypharmacy. Use of high-risk medications such as opioids, glucose-lowering medications, antithrombotics, and antipsychotics is prevalent among residents of LTCFs. Ensuring appropriate use of high-risk medications is important to minimize the risk of medication-related harm in this vulnerable population. This paper provides an overview of the prevalence and factors associated with high-risk medication use among residents of LTCFs. Evidencebased strategies to optimize the use of high-risk medications and enhance resident outcomes are also discussed.