Polypharmacy has the potential to result in adverse events for patients, therefore, the prescribing process must not only include a review but also the cessation of medicines. This Ausmed Course looks at polypharmacy and deprescribing.
Correlate the challenges of an ageing population with medication use and polypharmacy.
Explain to the patient or their carer the rationale for deprescribing medicines as indicated.
Critically evaluate medicines that are at higher risk of causing older adults to experience medication-related problems.
Plan and initiate a withdrawal trial taking into account medicines that should be ceased slowly.
This Ausmed Course is most relevant to pharmacists, nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals who prescribe medications or are heavily involved in medication management.
Cessation of medications may be a particularly appropriate action in certain clinical situations amongst older adults.
There is a need for education on how to safely and appropriately review a patient’s medication regime and cease unnecessary prescriptions, as this can lead to an improved quality of life for patients.
The purpose of this Ausmed Course is to enable learners to confidently consider whether to continue, reduce or cease medications that are not effective or may no longer be appropriate for a particular person.
Free
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