Recently published research commissioned by the DH as part of the patient safety programme identified considerable scope for improvement of prescription, dispensing, administration and monitoring of medicines in care homes. The study’s authors recommend clear local leadership and improved inter-professional communication.
In summary, the main findings were:
- residents (mean age 85 years) were taking an average of 8 medicines each
- on any one day 7 out of 10 patients experienced at least one medication error
- whilst the mean score for potential harm was relatively low, the results did indicate opportunity for more serious harm.
The full text version of the research can be downloaded here
CQC will be carrying out their own review and their existing guidance is available here
Other useful guidance includes the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain 2007 – The Handling of Medicines in Social Care
