Medication Use Leading to Hospital Readmission in Frail Elders

Joshua S. Shapiro, Rozalina G. McCoy, Paul Y. Takahashi, Bjorg Thorsteinsdottir, Stephanie M. Peterson, James M. Naessens, Parvez A. Rahman, Anupam Chandra, Gregory J. Hanson, Rachel D. Havyer, Christina Y. Chen, Lynn S. Borkenhagen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Frail multimorbid elders are at high risk for hospital readmission and can benefit from dedicated care transitions programs. Nonetheless, some patients remain at disproportionately heightened risk. In this retrospective study of 717 frail multimorbid community-dwelling elders (mean age = 83 years) enrolled in a care transitions program, we assessed the effect of specific medications and postdischarge medication changes on 30-day readmission. Patients treated with opioids, anticholinergic agents, or antihistamines and those requiring ≥ 4 medication changes after hospital discharge were at a significantly greater risk. This knowledge provides nurse practitioners an opportunity to individualize and improve the care of this vulnerable population.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)708-715
Number of pages8
JournalJournal for Nurse Practitioners
Volume13
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2017

Keywords

  • frail elderly
  • home visits
  • medication reconciliation
  • opioids
  • patient discharge

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Advanced and Specialized Nursing

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Medication Use Leading to Hospital Readmission in Frail Elders'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this