Case Studies
Medication Optimization Rounding in Long-Term Care
Medication, in addition to other treatment options, is an integral part of the care provided to long-term care residents. Sea View Hospital Rehabilitation Center and Home recently began a medication management optimization initiative to promote resident safety. Quality indicators are discussed during monthly meetings. Issues that generated significant discussion included the facility rate of nine or more medications and use of hypnotics. A specialized interdisciplinary team was formed to develop processes to be used in assessment, interventions and evaluation of resident-specific medication management. The team convenes weekly to discuss residents who have triggered on the minimum data set-based quality report. Each resident's medical history, current medical status, and medications are reviewed and evaluated, along with prescribed drug therapies, including effectiveness, dosage and possible reduction with the goal of possible discontinuation.
Medication, in addition to other treatment options, is an integral part of the care provided to long-term care residents. Sea View Hospital Rehabilitation Center and Home recently began a medication management optimization initiative to promote resident safety. Quality indicators are discussed during monthly meetings. Issues that generated significant discussion included the facility rate of nine or more medications and use of hypnotics. A specialized interdisciplinary team was formed to develop processes to be used in assessment, interventions and evaluation of resident-specific medication management. The team convenes weekly to discuss residents who have triggered on the minimum data set-based quality report. Each resident's medical history, current medical status, and medications are reviewed and evaluated, along with prescribed drug therapies, including effectiveness, dosage and possible reduction with the goal of possible discontinuation.