Polifarmácia, medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados e a vulnerabilidade de pessoas idosas / Polypharmacy, potentially inappropriate medications, and the vulnerability of older adults

Resumo Objetivo Analisar a frequência de polifarmácia e prescrição de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados (MPI) segundo os Critérios de Beers e CBMPI em pessoas idosas com vulnerabilidade clínico-funcional. Método Trata-se de um estudo transversal onde analisou-se os prontuários de 496 participantes com 60 anos ou mais, atendidos em primeira consulta em uma Policlínica Gerontológica. Os dados sociodemográficos, medicamentos, e o Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico Funcional 20 (IVCF-20) e quedas foram extraídos dos prontuários. A polifarmácia foi definida como o uso simultâneo de cinco ou mais medicamentos. Os participantes foram classificados em três grupos: robusto, em risco e vulnerável. Resultados A análise demonstrou que 69 (13,91%) dos participantes faziam uso de polifarmácia. Entre os usuários de polifarmácia, 40 (57,97%) faziam uso de pelo menos um MPI. Os MPIs mais encontrados foram a glibenclamida e o omeprazol, respectivamente. Pessoas idosas com vulnerabilidade apresentaram um risco três vezes maior de apresentar polifarmácia (RP 3,59; IC95% 2,109-6,092). Conclusão O uso de polifarmácia e MPI neste estudo estavam associados à vulnerabilidade da pessoa idosa, reforçando a necessidade de avaliação criteriosa de prescrições medicamentosas para essa população.

Abstract Objective To analyze the frequency of polypharmacy and the prescription of Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIM) according to the Beers Criteria and CBMPI in older adults with clinical-functional vulnerability. Method This is a cross-sectional study where the medical records of 496 participants aged 60 and older, seen in their first appointment at a Gerontological Polyclinic, were analyzed. Sociodemographic data, medications, the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index-20 (IVCF-20), and falls were extracted from the medical records. Polypharmacy was defined as the simultaneous use of five or more medications. Participants were classified into three groups: robust, at risk, and vulnerable. Results The analysis revealed that 69 (13.91%) participants were using polypharmacy. Among polypharmacy users, 40 (57.97%) were using at least one PIM. The most commonly found PIM were glibenclamide and omeprazole, respectively. Older adults with vulnerability were three times more likely to have polypharmacy (OR 3.59; 95% CI 2.109-6.092). Conclusion The use of polypharmacy and PIM in this study was associated with the vulnerability of older adults, emphasizing the need for a thorough evaluation of medication prescriptions for this population.

Potentially inappropriate medications with older people in intensive care and associated factors: a historic cohort study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The epidemiology of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in critical care units remains limited, especially in terms of the factors associated with their use. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the incidence and factors associated with PIMs use in intensive care units. DESIGN AND SETTING: Historical cohort study was conducted in a high-complexity hospital in Brazil. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted on 314 patients aged ≥ 60 years who were admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) at a high-complexity hospital in Brazil. The dates were extracted from a "Patient Safety Project" database. A Chi-square test, Student's t-test, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess which factors were associated with PIMs. The statistical significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: According to Beers' criteria, 12.8% of the identified drugs were considered inappropriate for the elderly population. The incidence rate of PIMs use was 45.8%. The most frequently used PIMs were metoclopramide, insulin, antipsychotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and benzodiazepines. Factors associated with PIMs use were the number of medications (odds ratio [OR] = 1.17), length of hospital stay (OR = 1.07), and excessive potential drug interactions (OR = 2.43). CONCLUSIONS: Approximately half of the older adults in ICUs received PIM. Patients taking PIMs had a longer length of stay in the ICU, higher numbers of medications, and higher numbers of potential drug interactions. In ICUs, the use of explicit methods combined with clinical judgment can contribute to the safety and quality of medication prescriptions.

Actividades de superación profesional de médicos generales integrales sobre el uso racional de medicamentos / Professional training activities of comprehensive general doctors on the rational use of medications i: en

Introducción: El uso irracional de medicamentos se debe, entre otros elementos, a la falta de superación profesional; situación con mayor repercusión en la atención primaria de salud, donde generalmente laboran los médicos generales integrales. Objetivo: Caracterizar las actividades de superación profesional de médicos generales integrales sobre el uso racional de medicamentos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de 269 médicos generales integrales que laboraban en los consultorios del médico de la familia o en los servicios de urgencia de las 17 áreas de salud del municipio de Santiago de Cuba en el período comprendido desde enero hasta julio de 2022, quienes fueron seleccionados mediante muestreo probabilístico por conglomerado bietápico. Se consideró como variable las actividades de superación profesional relacionadas con el uso racional de medicamentos, las cuales fueron valoradas a través de 5 indicadores. Resultados: La triangulación metodológica de los resultados evidenció que el nivel alcanzado en cuanto a la frecuencia de realización de dichas actividades fue bajo (índice de 1,18), al igual que lo obtenido en los indicadores analizados, excepto en el referido a la autopreparación que mostró un nivel medio. Conclusiones: Las actividades de superación profesional de los médicos generales integrales relacionadas con el uso racional de medicamentos en el municipio de Santiago de Cuba se caracterizaron por un nivel bajo de frecuencia de realización.

Introduction: Irrational use of medications is, among other elements, due to the lack of professional training; situation with more repercussion in primary health care, where comprehensive general doctors generally work. Objective: To characterize the professional training activities of comprehensive general doctors on the rational use of medications. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study of 269 comprehensive general doctors who worked in the family doctor offices or in the emergency services of the 17 health areas of Santiago de Cuba municipality was carried out from January to July, 2022, who were selected by means of a probabilistic sampling by biphase conglomerate. The activities of professional training related to the rational use of medications were considered as variable, which were valued through 5 indicators. Results: The methodological triangulation of the results evidenced that the level reached as for the frequency of realization of this activities was low (index of 1.18), as well as what was obtained in the analyzed indicators, except the one referred to the self-preparation which showed a mean level. Conclusions: Professional training activities of comprehensive general doctors related to the rational use of medications in Santiago de Cuba municipality were characterized by a low level of realization frequency.

Medicamentos antidepressivos estão associados a um risco aumentado de infecção hospitalar por Clostridioides difficile: um estudo populacional / Antidepressant medications are associated with increased risk of hospital-acquired clostridioides difficile infection: a population-based study

ABSTRACT Background: During the past decade, Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has become the most common cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Several risk factors have been implicated. Scattered evidence about the association of CDI with antidepressant medications use exists in the literature so far. Therefore, we aim to investigate whether the risk of developing CDI is increased in hospitalized patients using antidepressant medications. Methods: Patients who were hospitalized were included in our cohort. We excluded individuals aged less than 18 years. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to calculate the risk of CDI accounting for potential confounders. Results: The risk of CDI in hospitalized patients was increased in individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (OR: 4.44; 95%CI: 4.35-4.52), and in patients using clindamycin (OR: 1.55; 95%CI: 1.53-1.57), beta-lactam antibiotics (OR: 1.62; 95%CI: 1.60-1.64), PPI (OR: 3.27; 95%CI: 3.23-3.30), trazodone (OR: 1.31; 95%CI: 1.29-1.33), nortriptyline (OR: 1.25; 95%CI: 1.21-1.28), and mirtazapine (OR: 2.50; 95%CI: 2.46-2.54). After controlling for covariates, the risk of CDI was not increased in patients who were taking fluoxetine (OR: 0.94; 95%CI: 0.92-0.96). Conclusion: In contrary to fluoxetine; mirtazapine, nortriptyline, and trazodone were associated with increased risk of CDI in hospitalized patients.

RESUMO Contexto: Na última década, a infecção por Clostridioides difficile (ICD) tornou-se a causa mais comum de diarreia associada a antibióticos. Vários fatores de risco foram implicados. Existem evidências dispersas na literatura sobre a associação da ICD com o uso de medicamentos antidepressivos. Portanto, pretendemos investigar se o risco de desenvolver infecção adquirida na comunidade por Clostridioides difficile aumenta em pacientes que usam medicamentos antidepressivos. Métodos: Pacientes que foram hospitalizados foram incluídos em nossa coorte. Indivíduos com menos de 18 anos foram excluídos. Uma análise de regressão multivariada foi realizada para calcular o risco de ICD, considerando possíveis confusões. Resultados: O risco de ICD em pacientes hospitalizados foi maior em indivíduos diagnosticados com doença inflamatória intestinal (OR: 4,44; IC95%: 4,35-4,52) e em pacientes que usavam clindamicina (OR: 1,55; IC95%: 1,53-1,57), antibióticos beta-lactâmicos (OR: 1,62; IC95%: 1,60-1,64), PPI (OR: 3,27; IC95%: 3,23-3,30), trazodona (OR: 1,31; IC95%: 1,29-1,33), nortriptilina (OR: 1,25; IC95%: 1,21-1,28) e mirtazapina (OR: 2,50; IC95%: 2,46-2,54). Depois de controlar as covariáveis, o risco de ICD não aumentou em pacientes que estavam tomando fluoxetina (OR: 0,94; IC95%: 0,92-0,96). Conclusão: Em contrário à fluoxetina; mirtazapina, nortriptilina e trazodona foram associados a um risco aumentado de ICD em pacientes hospitalizados.

Efectividad y seguridad de la facotrabeculectomía por dos vías

Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad y seguridad de la facotrabeculectomía por dos vías. Métodos: Se realizó de un estudio preexperimental de tipo antes-después, en el cual se incluyeron 87 pacientes (87 ojos) con glaucoma primario de ángulo abierto tratados con facotrabeculectomía por dos vías. En ellos se analizaron variables demográficas (edad, sexo, color de la piel) y los efectos de la cirugía en agudeza visual, presión intraocular, número de medicamentos y complicaciones. Resultados: La mediana de edad fue de 72, 0 años, la distribución por sexo fue similar y predominaron los pacientes de color de la piel no blanca. La mediana de presión intraocular preoperatoria y del número de medicamentos fue de 25,0 mmHg (RI: 22,0-30,0 mmHg) y 3,0 (RI: 3-3), respectivamente. Mientras que en el posoperatorio (6 meses) la mediana de la presión fue de 15,2 mmHg (RI: 13,2-17,2 mmHg) y del número de medicamentos 0,0 (RI: 0,0-1,0). El éxito completo a los 6 meses fue del 62, 8 %. La mediana de la agudeza visual sin corrección pasó de 0,30 (RI: 0, 10-0, 50) en el preoperatorio a 0, 80 (RI: 0, 50-1, 00) en el posoperatorio. Las complicaciones fueron mínimas, siendo el edema macular quístico la más frecuente. Conclusiones: La facotrabeculectomía por dos vías es efectiva para disminuir la presión intraocular, reducir el número de medicamentos y lograr la mejoría de la agudeza visual. Se puede considerar segura por la baja frecuencia en la que se presentan complicaciones.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of phacotrabeculectomy by two ways. Methods: A preexperimental before-after study was conducted with 87 patients (87 eyes) with primary open-angle glaucoma treated with phacotrabeculectomy by two ways. The patients were analyzed according to demographic variables (age, sex, skin color), as well as the effects of surgery on visual acuity, intraocular pressure, number of medications, and complications. Results: The mean age was 72.0 years, while distribution by sex was similar and patients with non-white skin color predominated. The median preoperative intraocular pressure and number of medications were 25.0 mmHg (RI: 22.0-30.0 mmHg) and 3.0 (RI: 3-3), respectively; while the postoperative (6 months) median pressure was 15.2 mmHg (RI: 13.2-17.2 mmHg) and number of medications was 0.0 (RI: 0.0-1.0). Complete success at six months was 62.8 %. Median uncorrected visual acuity passed from 0.30 (RI: 0, 10-0, 50) in the preoperative period to 0.80 (RI: 0, 50-1, 00) in the postoperative period. Complications were minimal, with cystoid macular edema being the most frequent. Conclusions: Phacotrabeculectomy by two ways is effective in lowering intraocular pressure, reducing the number of medications, and achieving improvement in visual acuity. It can be considered safe due to the low frequency of complications.

A new horizon in the prescription pattern of drugs for osteoarthritis in a tertiary care hospital: A prospective observational study

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a significant contributor to chronic pain, mainly affecting lower extremity joints like the knee and hip, and causing considerable impairment in elderly individuals. OA treatment focuses on easing discomfort and enhancing mobility. Despite their adverse unfavorable effects, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are frequently used for symptom alleviation. However, there is still a need for secure and efficient alternative therapies that could provide OA patients with both symptomatic relief and disease-modifying benefits. Despite the indisputable fact that the disease has a substantial socioeconomic impact on patients, there is not much research available to reflect on the medicine prescription pattern in OA. Aim and Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the prescription pattern and their rationality in patients with OA in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, prospective, and observational study conducted in the orthopedics department for all newly diagnosed and old treated patients with OA. Around 350 patients were taken into the study and their prescriptions were scrutinized. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data and present it as percentages. Results: Over 61.7% of females were affected compared to 38.3% of males with OA. The knee joint (76.2%) followed by the hip joint (13.7%) were the most common joints involved. Aceclofenac and diclofenac were the most common NSAIDs used in the patients, whereas piroxicam was the least prescribed drug. Gastroprotective agents, calcium supplements, and SYSDOA were the commonest adjuvants used in the treatment of OA patients. Conclusions: Even though NSAIDs are favored, SYSDOA and non-pharmacological treatments such as lifestyle changes, and frequent mild exercise have changed the treatment plan for OA

Medicamentos potencialmente perigosos: a expertise dos enfermeiros que atuam em unidade de urgência e emergência / High-alert medications: the expertise of nurses who work in an emergency and emergency unit / Medicamentos potencialmente peligrosos: la experiencia de las enfermeras que trabajan en una unidad de emergencia y emergencia

Objetivo: Identificar o conhecimento dos enfermeiros de um setor de urgência e emergência sobre os medicamentos potencialmente perigosos. Métodos: Estudo descritivo quantitativo desenvolvido com 23 enfermeiros em hospital de nível terciário municipal. Foi aplicado o Questionário de Medicamentos Potencialmente Perigosos. Para a análise dos dados, foi utilizado o software SPSS e foram utilizadas as medidas de tendência central e as medidas de dispersão. Resultados: A média±(DP) do tempo de formação foi 9,7 ± 3,0 anos e o tempo de serviço na instituição obteve média±(DP) 3,9 ± 3,8 anos. A média±(DP) de acertos no domínio 1 foi de 7 ± 1,74 e no domínio 2 foi 6,9 ± 1,55. Muitos profissionais referiram ter alguma dúvida relacionada ao uso de Medicamentos Potencialmente Perigosos. O domínio 2 obteve menor número de acertos quando comparado ao domínio 1. Conclusão: Os enfermeiros possuem conhecimento sobre a temática, pois a média de acertos nos dois domínios foram satisfatórias, mas apresentaram o menor número de acertos quanto ao uso de alguns fármacos, como prometazina e amiodarona. Com isso, reforça-se a importância de capacitar esses profissionais visando a segurança do paciente. (AU)

Objective: To identify the knowledge of nurses in an urgency and emergency sector about potentially dangerous drugs. Methods: Quantitative descriptive study developed with 23 nurses in a municipal tertiary level hospital. The Questionnaire of High-Alert Medicationswas applied. For data analysis, the SPSS software was used and measures of central tendency and dispersion measures were used. Results: The mean ± (SD) time since graduation was 9.7 ± 3.0 years and the length of service at the institution had a mean ± (SD) 3.9 ± 3.8 years. The mean ± (SD) of correct answers in domain 1 was 7 ± 1.74 and in domain 2 its was 6.9 ± 1.55. Many professionals reported having some doubt related to the use of Potentially Dangerous Medicines. Domain 2 had a lower number of correct answers when compared to domain 1. Conclusion: Nurses have knowledge on the subject, as the average of correct answers in the two domains were satisfactory, but they had the lowest number of correct answers regarding the use of some drugs, such as promethazine and amiodarone. With this, the importance of training these professionals is reinforced with a view to patient safety. (AU)

Objetivo: Identificar el conocimiento de los enfermeros en un sector de urgencia y emergencia sobre medicamentos potencialmente peligrosos. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo cuantitativo desarrollado con 23 enfermeras de un hospital municipal de nivel terciario. Se aplicó el Cuestionario de medicamentos potencialmente peligrosos. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó el software SPSS y se utilizaron medidas de tendencia central y medidas de dispersión. Resultados: El tiempo medio ± (DE) desde la graduación fue de 9,7 ± 3,0 años y el tiempo de servicio en la institución tuvo una media ± (DE) 3,9 ± 3,8 años. La media ± (DE) de respuestas correctas en el dominio 1 fue de 7 ± 1,74 y en el dominio 2 fue de 6,9 ± 1,55. Muchos profesionales informaron tener alguna duda relacionada con el uso de medicamentos potencialmente peligrosos. El dominio 2 tuvo un número menor de respuestas correctas en comparación con el dominio 1. Conclusión: Los enfermeros tienen conocimiento sobre el tema, ya que el promedio de aciertos en los dos dominios fue satisfactorio, pero tuvieron el menor número de aciertos en cuanto al uso de algunos fármacos, como prometazina y amiodarona. Con ello, se refuerza la importancia de formar a estos profesionales con miras a la seguridad del paciente. (AU)

Reversão das recomendações emitidas pela Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias no SUS após Consultas Públicas / Reversal of the recommendations issued by the National Commission for the Incorporation of Technologies in SUS after Public Consultations

Resumo O trabalho analisou o efeito das Consultas Públicas (CP) e suas contribuições nas recomendações da Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias (CONITEC). Trata-se de estudo descritivo e retrospectivo, com abordagem qualiquantitativa, com fonte de dados secundárias de acesso público, entre 2012 e 2017. Elaborou-se banco de dados para caracterizar as CP de medicamentos e suas contribuições, o que permitiu identificar casos de reversões entre a recomendação preliminar e final da CONITEC. Analisou-se as contribuições nos casos de reversão para caracterização de eixos argumentativos e tipo de embasamento. Das 307 demandas de incorporação, 205 destes passaram por CP, com 23.894 contribuições. A reversão das recomendações ocorreu em 9% das CP abertas (15 medicamentos), todas no sentido da não incorporação para incorporação. Principais eixos argumentativos trataram de benefícios clínicos e menores eventos adversos, prevalecendo o envio de experiências clínicas e opiniões. Evidencia-se avanços nos processos de incorporação de tecnologias no SUS pela realização da CP e ficou claro o desafio que os tomadores de decisão enfrentam nos espaços institucionais para o aprimoramento da participação social no sentido de fortalecer o benefício público.

Abstract The work analyzed the effect of Public Consultations (PC) and their contributions to the recommendations of the National Commission for the Incorporation of Technologies (CONITEC). This is a descriptive and retrospective study with a qualitative-quantitative approach using a secondary data source of public access, between 2012 and 2017. A database was developed to characterize the PC of medications and their contributions, which allowed the identification of cases of reversals between the preliminary and final recommendation of CONITEC. We analyzed the contributions in cases of reversal for characterization of argumentative axes and type of basis. Of the 307 demands for incorporation of medications, 205 went through PC, with 23,894 contributions. The reversal of the recommendations occurred in 9% of the open PC (15 medications), all in the sense of non-incorporation for incorporation. Main argumentative axes dealt with clinical benefits and minor adverse events, with prevalence of the submission of clinical experiences and opinions. Advances in the processes of incorporation of technologies in the SUS by performing PC were found and the challenge that decision makers face in institutional spaces for the improvement of social participation to strengthen the public benefit was clear.

Molecular and Genetic Mechanisms of Neurotoxicity During Anti-seizure Medications Use

ABSTRACT Epilepsy is a multifactorial pathology that has allowed the development of various drugs aiming to combat it. This effort was formally initiated in the 1940s when phenytoin began to be used. It eventually turned out to be a drug with great anticonvulsant efficacy. At present, several potentially good new generation anti-seizure medications (ASMs) have been developed. Most of them present more tolerability and less toxic effects. However, they continue to have adverse effects at different levels. In addition, some seizures are difficult to treat with ASMs, representing 30% of the total cases of people who suffer from epilepsy. This review aims to explore the genetic and molecular mechanisms of ASMs neurotoxicity, proposing the study of damage caused by epileptic seizures, in addition to the deterioration generated by anti-seizure drug administration within the central nervous system. It is beyond question that there is a need to develop drugs that lower the lower the risk of secondary and toxic effects of ASMs. Simultaneously, we must find strategies that produce fewer harmful interactions and more health benefits when taking anti-seizure drugs.

Research progress on mechanism and medical prevention of refractive regression after laser myopia corneal refractive surgery / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

Laser corneal refractive surgery is an effective way for the correction of myopia, and its long-term stability is a common concern of surgeons and patients. However, refractive regression is still one of the most common postoperative long-term complications, which has a great impact on postoperative refractive state and visual quality. Refractive regression may be related to many factors, such as the remodeling of corneal epithelium and stroma, and the imbalance between corneal biomechanics and intraocular pressure. Although enhancement surgery could be a useful way to correct refractive regression, there is a risk of corneal ectasia and other complications. Some intraocular pressure lowering medications can be used to rebuild the balance of intraocular pressure and corneal biomechanics, and to prevent postoperative refractive regression by affecting the thickness of corneal epithelium. To a certain extent, the type, the timing and the way of intraocular pressure lowering medications application may have an impact on the prevention and treatment effect of refractive regression.

The Medical Economic Effects of Two Pharmacists Checking Patient Medications Brought to Hospitals by Part of Inpatient Pharmaceutical Services / 医薬品情報学

Objective: Pharmacists in inpatient pharmaceutical services are required to evaluate the medications that patients bring with them to the hospital when admitted and to make recommendations to physicians about these medications' proper use. Many hospitals perform such inpatient pharmaceutical services. Studies have found that pharmacists with insufficient years of experience are often put in charge of this practice. This has resulted in patients continuing to take inappropriate medications. We hypothesized that the involvement of another pharmacist in checking outpatient medications brought to the hospital might lower the rate of inappropriate use. We initiated the rechecking of medications brought to the hospital by the drug information (DI) pharmacist, based on the need for cooperation between the DI pharmacist and ward pharmacists.Methods: We initiated rechecks by DI pharmacists of medications brought to the hospital and first checked by ward pharmacists, and estimated the medical economic impact of pharmaceutical intervention between 1 May 2019 and 30 April 2020.Results: Within one year, the DI pharmacist suggested 15 interventions, including four interventions related to digitalis products and three related to direct oral anticoagulants. The medical economic impact was estimated to be 10,175,000 yen.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that checking by another pharmacist of outpatient medications brought to the hospital is a useful addition to the check by ward pharmacists.

Medication Fall Risk Score e Evaluation Tools: Adaptação Transcultural para o uso no Brasil / Medication Fall Risk Score and Evaluation Tools: Cross-Cultural daptation for Use in Brazil

A queda é um problema potencial para todos os pacientes já que o risco aumenta no ambiente hospitalar, independente da instituição. Muitos fatores podem estar associados a queda, dentre eles o equilíbrio, que pode ser influenciado pelo uso de medicamentos. A aplicação de escala de avaliação para risco de quedas é uma das ferramentas mais empregadas no Brasil e no mundo, porém se faz necessário avaliar também os medicamentos em uso do paciente. Com o objetivo de realizar a adaptação transcultural e validação do Medication Falls Risk Score e da Evaluation Tools para a língua portuguesa do Brasil. Método: Estudo metodológico para a adaptação transcultural e validação das ferramentas Medication Falls Risk Score e Evaluation Tools, utilizando-se o protocolo de Beaton et al. e realizando a validação da praticabilidade de ambas as escalas. Os instrumentos obtiveram Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC) médio de 0,99, sendo considerados válidos. A validação da praticabilidade de ambos os instrumentos teve resultados favoráveis, 65,2% dos participantes acharam a ferramenta de fácil aplicação, e o tempo médio gasto para a aplicação foi de 13 minutos e 30 segundos. Dentre as dificuldades encontradas, destaca-se a de reconhecer os medicamentos perante sua classe terapêutica, o que justifica a diferença entre o tempo de aplicação e acerto do teste aplicado. As ferramentas foram adaptadas transculturalmente para o português brasileiro, e apontaram uma excelente concordância e viabilidade de uso na prática nos cenários de atenção em saúde. A escala e as ferramentas aprovadas poderão servir como apoio para identificação, classificação e cuidado multiprofissional perante o risco de quedas de pacientes internados, sendo uma avaliação adicional a Morse Fall Scale - versão brasileira.

Falls are a potential problem for all patients, especially as the risk increases in the hospital environment, regardless of the institution. Many factors may be associated with falls, including balance, which may be influenced by the use of medication. The application of an assessment scale for the risk of falls is one of the most used tools in Brazil and in the world, but it is also necessary to evaluate the medications the patient is using. The objective of this study is to carry out the cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Medication Falls Risk Score and the Evaluation Tools for the Brazilian Portuguese language. Method: Methodological study for the cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Medication Falls Risk Score and Evaluation Tools, using the protocol by Beaton et al. and performing the validation of the feasibility of both scales. The instruments obtained an average Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.99, being considered valid. The validation of the feasibility of both instruments had favorable results, 65.2% of the participants found the tool easy to apply, and the average time taken to apply it was 13 minutes and 30 seconds. Among the difficulties encountered, the difficulty of recognizing the drugs in terms of their therapeutic class stands out, which justifies the difference between the time of application and the accuracy of the applied test. The tools were cross-culturally adapted to Brazilian Portuguese and demonstrated excellent agreement and practicality in healthcare settings. The approved scale and tools may serve as support for the identification, classification, and multidisciplinary care regarding the risk of falls in hospitalized patients, with the Morse Fall Scale - Brazilian version being an additional assessment.

Análise da automedicação pediátrica em pacientes atendidos em hospital de alta complexidade / Analysis of pediatric self-medication in patients treated at a highcomplexity hospital

A automedicação pediátrica ocorre quando pais ou responsáveis usam medicamentos sem prescrição para tratar doenças ou sintomas reconhecidos nas crianças. Analisar o perfil da automedicação pediátrica em um hospital de alta complexidade no interior do Ceará. Trata-se de um estudo transversal baseado na técnica de entrevista, realizado com 135 pais/responsáveis de crianças com idade entre 0 a 12 anos que procuraram atendimento hospitalar entre novembro de 2020 e março de 2021. Observou-se uma prevalência de automedicação de 60%. Quanto à frequência, 43,2% dos entrevistados relataram realizar às vezes. Destes, a maioria era: mãe (94,3%; p<0,0001), com 17 a 27 anos (48,6%; p<0,0001) e renda familiar de menos de 1 salário mínimo (57,1%; p=0,020); 59,3% apontaram como motivo considerar o problema de saúde simples. A principal causa da automedicação foi a febre e os medicamentos mais utilizados foram analgésicos e antipiréticos. A predominância da automedicação pediátrica pelas mães deve-se à experiência com seus outros filhos. Além disso, as condições socioeconômicas influenciaram as práticas errôneas da automedicação, pois as famílias que não possuem recursos para a consulta e compra dos fármacos acabam optando pela autoadministração. O uso indiscriminado de medicações deve ser reprimido, pois, a depender da dose, consequências graves podem ocorrer às crianças. Destaca-se a importância da equipe multiprofissional de saúde durante uma consulta pediátrica, com médicos, enfermeiros e farmacêuticos repassando aos pais informações a respeito dos medicamentos, seus benefícios e riscos, desestimulando a prática nesta faixa populacional e reduzindo os erros de medicação.

Pediatric self-medication occurs when parents or guardians use over-the-counter medications to treat recognized illnesses or symptoms in children. To analyze the profile of pediatric self-medication in a high-complexity hospital in the interior of Ceará. This is a cross-sectional study based on the interview technique, carried out with 135 parents/guardians of children aged 0 to 12 years old who sought hospital care between November 2020 and March 2021. There was a prevalence of self-medication of 60%. As for frequency, 43.2% of respondents reported doing it sometimes. Of these, the majority were: mothers (94.3%; p<0.0001); aged 17 to 27 years old (48.6%; p<0.0001); family income of less than 1 minimum wage (57.1 %; p=0.020); and 59.3% indicated that their reason for medicating was that they considered the health problem as simple. The main cause of self-medication was fever, and the most used drugs were analgesics and antipyretics. The predominance of pediatric self-medication by mothers is due to their experience with their other children. In addition, socioeconomic conditions influenced the erroneous practices of self-medication, as families that do not have the resources to consult and purchase drugs end up opting for self-administration. The indiscriminate use of medications must be repressed, because, depending on the dose, serious consequences can occur to children. The importance of a multidisciplinary health team during a pediatric consultation is highlighted, with doctors, nurses, and pharmacists providing parents with information about medication, their benefits and risks, discouraging the practice in this population group and reducing medication errors.

Polifarmacia y prescripción de medicamentos potencialmente no apropiados en adultos mayores hospitalizados

Introducción: las prescripciones potencialmente inapropiadas en ancianos es un hecho común, tanto en el ámbito comunitario como hospitalario, dada su frecuencia elevada de comorbilidad grave y polifarmacia, y conlleva importantes repercusiones clínicas y económicas. Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia de polifarmacia y de prescripción de medicamentos potencialmente no apropiados en adultos mayores. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico transversal, de series de casos, en adultos mayores hospitalizados en el hogar de ancianos "Lidia Doce Sánchez" de Bayamo entre 1ro de septiembre de 2018 al 1ro de septiembre de 2019. La información se obtuvo del análisis de las historias clínicas y la aplicación de los criterios de STOPP/START. El análisis de los datos se realizó mediante estadística descriptiva, se utilizaron pruebas de contrastación de hipótesis y se determinó la razón de prevalencia para determinar los factores asociados. Resultados: fueron frecuentes los pacientes con edades iguales o superiores a 75 años; del sexo masculino; con grado de instrucción primaria; con estado civil soltero y desnutrido. El promedio de comorbilidades por paciente fue de 4,2 ± 2,5; encontrándose como las principales afecciones las enfermedades cardiovasculares. La polifarmacia fue frecuente. La relación de riesgo frente a las potenciales prescripciones inadecuadas de medicamentos es con la edad avanzada, nivel de instrucción baja, comorbilidad, malnutrición y polimedicación. Las potenciales omisiones en la prescripción relacionan con la edad avanzada. Las potenciales interacciones medicamentosas aumentan su probabilidad de presentación con edad avanzada, un nivel bajo de instrucción, la desnutrición, la comorbilidad y la polimedicación. Conclusiones: se constató elevada polifarmacia y prescripción de medicamentos potencialmente no apropiados en los adultos mayores.

Introduction: potentially inappropriate prescription in the elderly is a common occurrence, both in the community and hospital settings, given its high frequency of severe comorbidity and polypharmacy, and has significant clinical and economic repercussions. Objective: to determine the prevalence of polypharmacy and the prescription of potentially inappropriate medications in older adults. Methods: a cross-sectional analytical study of case series was carried out in older adults hospitalized in the "Lidia Doce Sánchez" nursing home in Bayamo between September 1, 2018 and September 1, 2019. The information was obtained from the analysis of clinical records and the application of the STOPP/START criteria. The analysis of the data was carried out through descriptive statistics, hypothesis contrast tests were used and the prevalence ratio was determined to determine the associated factors. Results: patients with ages equal to or greater than 75 years were frequent; of the male sex; with a primary education degree; with single marital status and malnourished. The average number of comorbidities per patient was 4.2 ± 2.5; being found as the main affections cardiovascular diseases. Polypharmacy was frequent. The risk relationship against potential inappropriate drug prescriptions is with advanced age, low level of education, comorbidity, malnutrition and polypharmacy. The potential omissions in the prescription are related to advanced age. Potential drug interactions increase the probability of presentation with advanced age, low level of education, malnutrition, comorbidity and polypharmacy. Conclusions: high polypharmacy and prescription of potentially inappropriate medications were found in older adults.

Introdução: prescrições potencialmente inadequadas em idosos é uma ocorrência comum, tanto na comunidade quanto no hospital, dada a sua alta frequência de comorbidades graves e polifarmácia, e acarreta importantes repercussões clínicas e econômicas. Objetivo: determinar a prevalência de polifarmácia e prescrição de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados em idosos. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo transversal analítico de série de casos em idosos hospitalizados no lar de idosos "Lidia Doce Sánchez", em Bayamo, entre 1º de setembro de 2018 e 1º de setembro de 2019. As informações foram obtidas a partir da análise dos prontuários e da aplicação dos critérios STOPP/START. A análise dos dados foi realizada por meio de estatística descritiva, teste de hipóteses e razão de prevalência foi determinada para determinar os fatores associados. Resultados: pacientes com 75 anos ou mais foram frequentes; macho; com o ensino fundamental; com estado civil solteiro e desnutrido. O número médio de comorbidades por paciente foi de 4,2 ± 2,5; sendo encontradas como principais afecções as doenças cardiovasculares. A polifarmácia era frequente. A razão de risco para potenciais prescrições inadequadas de medicamentos é com idade avançada, baixa escolaridade, comorbidade, desnutrição e polimedicação. As possíveis omissões na prescrição referem-se à idade avançada. Potenciais interações medicamentosas aumentam sua probabilidade de se apresentar com idade avançada, baixo nível de escolaridade, desnutrição, comorbidade e polimedicação. Conclusões: alta polifarmácia e prescrição de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados foram encontrados em idosos.

Status quo of knowledge, attitudes and practice of general practitioners on potentially inappropriate medication in the elderly in Shanxi Province and relevant factors / 中华全科医师杂志

Objective:To investigate the levels of knowledge, attitudes and practice of general practitioners on potentially inappropriate medication(PIM)in the elders in Shanxi Province and to explore its relevant factors.Methods:A cross-sectional survey on knowledge, attitudes and practice of general practitioners on PIM in the elders was conducted from January to February 2021. A self-designed questionnaire was used for the survey, which included the basic information of general practitioners and the knowledge, attitudes and practice of elderly PIM. The convenient sampling method was used to select 16 primary, secondary and tertiary hospitals from the general practice alliance units in Shanxi Province, and 257 general practitioners in the selected hospital were recruited as the research objects. The related factors were investigated by univariate regression and multiple stepwise linear regression analyses.Results:A total of 257 questionnaires were distributed, and 248 valid questionnaires were recovered, with an effective rate of 96.5%. The scores of elderly PIM knowledge, attitudes and behavior of 248 general practitioners were (31.4±9.2), (32.9±4.6) and (34.9±8.3), respectively, with the scoring rates of 62.8% (31.4/50.0), 82.3% (32.9/40.0) and 69.8% (34.9/50.0). The total score was (99.2±16.3), and the total score rate was 70.9% (99.2/140.0). There was a statistically significant difference in the total score of elderly PIM knowledge, attitudes and practice among general practitioners with different educational background, work units, professional title, awareness level of PIM and needs for PIM training( F=6.14,4.39 and 5.38, t=2.97 and 2.62, all P<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that general practitioners with undergraduate and graduate education and higher professional titles had better knowledge, attitudes and practice of PIM ( t=2.69, 2.98 and 2.36, all P<0.05), and general practitioners without knowledge of PIM and no needs for PIM training had worse knowledge, attitudes and practice of PIM ( t=-2.96 and -2.09, all P<0.05). Conclusions:The knowledge, attitudes and behavior intervention of general practitioners on elderly PIM needs to be improved. It is necessary to strengthen the elderly PIM knowledge and skill training for general practitioners with low educational background, lower professional titles without awareness and training of PIM.

Effectiveness of Teaching Standardized Protocol on Safe Medication Administration Process Upon the Level of Knowledge among Nurses at a Tertiary Care Hospital, Chennai

Strategies to improve medication safety focused on acute care settings. Twenty-six studies and descriptions of quality improvement projects were identified. Strategies used to focus on recommendations to prevent medication errors at various stages, from a nationwide voluntary organization to improve safety of patients and empower education system of nurses and other health care providers in safe practices in health care system and vast growing technology.

Prevalence of Drug Interactions and Potentially Inappropriate Medications Among Geriatric Patients in India.

Aim: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of potential drug-drug interactions (PDDIs) and potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) among geriatrics. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted for six months in the Department of Geriatrics, M.S. Ramaiah Teaching Hospital, Bangalore. PDDIs and PIMS were analyzed using micromedex database and Beer's criteria respectively. Results: Among 395 prescriptions, 221(56%) prescriptions showed 559 pDDIs and 41(10.4%) PIMs. Almost 281(50.3%), 260(46.5%), 16(2.7%) and 2(0.3%) pDDIs were categorised as major, moderate, minor and contraindicated respectively. Almost 321(57.5%) were synergistic and 196(35.0%) were antagonistic drug interactions. Pearson correlation value (R) is 0.9957 which showed a strong positive correlation. Conclusion: This study created awareness on drug interactions among geriatrics and help the practitioners to prescribe drugs with a low risk of pDDIs. The authors suggest PIM monitoring in geriatrics to avoid adverse effects and improve patients' quality of life.

Premezclados como alternativa para el uso seguro de medicamentos intravenosos en escenarios de atención en salud / Premixed products, an alternative for safe intravenous medications use in health care settings / As pré-misturas como alternativa para o uso seguro de drogas intravenosas em ambientes de saúde

RESUMEN Objetivo: presentar el panorama de errores de medicación, los recursos asociados a la preparación de medicamentos intravenosos y el uso de premezclados en la aten ción en salud. Metodología: se realizaron búsquedas en diferentes bases de datos, sin límite de fecha o tipo de estudio. Adicionalmente se realizó un análisis para estimar los costos, validando con expertos los recursos en central de mezclas. Resultados: los errores de medicación son un error médico común a nivel global. Los datos disponi bles son heterogéneos, pero sugieren que los errores de medicación pueden ser una causa considerable de morbilidad y mortalidad en ciertas poblaciones y contextos, con intervenciones adicionales, estancias hospitalarias prolongadas, mayores costos de atención y reducción en la probabilidad de que el tratamiento sea oportuno y eficaz. En medicinas intravenosas resultan escenarios de mayor gravedad y mayor nivel de costos. Los costos laborales anuales para una central de mezclas en Colombia se estiman entre 281,5 y 422,3 millones de pesos. La estandarización, como parte de los fármacos premezclados proporciona menor riesgo de contaminación, menor posibilidad de error en la preparación, menor incidencia de complicaciones rela cionadas con la terapia, disminución del desperdicio, mejora en la oportunidad de dispensación, optimización en el trabajo de los equipos de farmacia y reducción de costos asociados con este proceso. Conclusiones: el uso de premezclados, como parte de un programa de reducción de errores de medicación, puede mejorar los indicadores de calidad en administración de medicamentos y garantizar un uso más seguro de la terapia intravenosa.

SUMMARY Objective: To present an overview of medication preparation and administration errors, the resources implied in the preparation of intravenous medications, and the use of premixed drugs in healthcare settings. Methodology: We performed a litera ture review without limits by date or type of study. Additionally, analysis and vali dation by pharmaceutical experts were carried out to estimate the use of resources and related costs. Results: The available heterogeneous data suggest that medication errors are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in specific populations and settings. Error medications cause additional interventions, prolonged hospitalization, higher costs of care, and a reduction in the treatment probability of success. Errors involving intravenously administered drugs have more severe consequences and generate higher costs. Annual labor costs for centralized medication mixing in Colombia are estimated between $281.5 and $422.3 million. Premixed drugs decrease the risk of contamination, the possibility of error in the preparation, and the incidence of complications related to therapy. Also, its use is related to the reduc tion of waste, improvement in the timing of dispensing, optimizing the pharmacy team, and reducing costs associated with this process. Conclusions: The use of premixes as part of a program to reduce medication errors can improve the quality indicators in drug administration and guarantee a safer use of intravenous therapy.

RESUMO Objetivo: apresentar o panorama dos erros de medicação, os recursos associados ao preparo de medicamentos intravenosos e o uso de pré-misturas na assistência à saúde. Metodologia: as buscas foram realizadas em diferentes bases de dados, sem limite de data ou tipo de estudo. Além disso, foi realizada uma análise para estimar os custos, validando com especialistas os recursos no centro de mistura. Resultados: erros de medicação são um erro médico comum globalmente. Os dados disponíveis são heterogêneos, mas sugerem que os erros de medicação podem ser uma causa significativa de morbidade e mortalidade em certas populações e contextos, com intervenções adicionais, internações hospitalares mais longas, custos mais altos de atendimento e probabilidade reduzida de que o tratamento seja oportuno e eficaz. Nos medicamentos intravenosos, resultam cenários de maior gravidade e maior nível de custos. Os custos anuais de mão de obra para uma usina de mistura na Colômbia são estimados entre 281,5 e 422,3 milhões de pesos. A padronização, como parte dos medicamentos pré-misturados, proporciona menor risco de contaminação, menor possibilidade de erro no preparo, menor incidência de complicações relacionadas à terapêutica, redução de desperdícios, melhoria na oportunidade de dispensação, otimização no trabalho das equipes. da farmácia e redução dos custos associados a este processo. Conclusões: o uso de pré-misturas, como parte de um programa de redução de erros de medicação, pode melhorar os indicadores de qualidade na admi nistração de medicamentos e garantir um uso mais seguro da terapia intravenosa.

Assessment of appropriateness of prescribing among Indian geriatric outpatients using STOPP and START Criteria Version 2 at a tertiary care teaching hospital

Background: Inappropriate prescribing is more prevalent in geriatric patients. A popular tool for screening appropriateness of prescribing is the screening tool of older person’s prescriptions (STOPP) and screening tool to alert doctors to right treatment (START) criteria. In this study, our aim was to estimate the incidence of potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) utilizing these criteria among patients attending outpatient departments. In addition, we aimed to identify potential factors that are associated with PIP. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study are as follows: (1) To estimate incidence of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) using STOPP criteria; (2) To estimate incidence of potential prescribing omissions (PPOs) using START criteria; and (3) To identify potential factors that are associated with PIP. Materials and Methods: A prospective and cross-sectional study that was observational in nature was performed in patients with age 65 years and above. Prescriptions of these patients were analyzed by collecting relevant data that were subsequently entered in specially designed case record forms. The modified version 2.0 of STOPP/START criteria was utilized to assess PIP in the form of PIMs and PPOs. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel 2013 and analyzed. Categorical variables were described as frequency and percentage whereas continuous variables were described as mean with standard deviation. Results: Prescriptions of a total 306 patients were evaluated (mean age: 69.4, 60% male, average number of medications per prescription: 5.04 ± 2.44), PIMs were detected in 88 (28.75%) and PPOs in 30 (9.8%) patients. Ninety-six patients had either a PIM or a PPO. PIMs mainly involved were duplication of drug class (26.5%), use of first generation antihistaminic for >1 week (20.4%) and use of glimepiride (18.6%). Major PPOs identified were non-use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors following acute myocardial infarction (26%), non-use of statin therapy (26%), and antiplatelet therapy (21.7%) in patients with diabetes mellitus along with cardiovascular risk factor. Polypharmacy (OR 6.011, P < 0.0001) and comorbidity (OR 3.097, P = 0.015) significantly increase the risk of PIM encounter. Conclusion: PIP in the form of PIMs and PPOs was prevalent in the studied patients. Polypharmacy and comorbidity were associated with an increased likelihood of PIM.

COVID 19 INFECTION IN A PATIENT NEWLY DIAGNOSED WITH HIV/TB COINFECTION – A CASE REPORT

HIV/TB coinfection, COVID 19 with HIV/TB, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), TB lymphadenopathy