Medication Error And Its Adverse Effects On The Elderly

Medication Error and its adverse effects to the elderly Firehiwot Bealy University of Regina Medication Error and Its Adverse Effects Older adults are at high risk for adverse effects of medication error more than their counteract younger adults. This is because they depend on more than one medication in order to treat or prevent disease, syndromes and sickness (Lindenberg, 2010). It is inevitable that the elderly face adverse effects of drugs while on medication especially when they still live independently. However, chances of errors in hospitals and care homes are more frequent when the medication process connects several departments (Belen et. al., 2009). Therefore, tactical measures are required in the provision of drug therapy in order to optimize safe medication in older adults. This paper discusses the issue by analyzing the existing structure of administering medication, reviewing the occurrence of medication errors; evaluating systems developed to advance safe medication administration. Finally, addressing the implication for professional nursing practice. Administering Medication According to research conducted by Mckenzie et al (2011), approximately 60% of elderly Canadians and Americans who are 65 years of age and older are likely to stay at a Hospital longer than other younger populations due to the age related health impediment. Also, once they are admitted, they are likely to be treated at the intensiveShow MoreRelatedElderly Population At Risk For Hospital Readmission953 Words   |  4 Pagesaccount for the increasing cases of the elderly population at risk for hospital readmission, the authors discuss an in depth evaluation on why this occurs. 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