A retrospective chart review to assess potentially inappropriate prescriptions related to oral NSAID, anticoagulant, and antiplatelet use in two family medicine teaching clinics
Date
2015-04-06
Authors
Hamilton, Kevin
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Abstract
Introduction: Potentially inappropriate prescriptions (PIPs) have been defined as the prescribing of medications where the risk of adverse outcomes outweighs the benefit to patients. Some medications pose a greater risk than others. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiplatelets, and anticoagulants are among the top offenders for preventable drug-related ER visits, hospitalizations and deaths.
Methods: Data were collected through a retrospective electronic/paper chart review for all patients prescribed a target medication in two family medicine clinics in Winnipeg, Manitoba from June 2012 to June 2013.
Results: The presence of at least one PIP was identified in 198 of 567 patients (35%). The most common PIP was the use of an oral NSAID with one or more gastrointestinal bleed risk factor without adequate gastro-protection.
Conclusion: With over one-third of patients using NSAIDs, antiplatelets, and anticoagulants potentially inappropriately, a greater focus on improving prescribing practices with these higher-risk medications is warranted.
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Keywords
Inappropriate prescribing, Family medicine