Characterization of geriatric drug-related hospital readmissions.

摘要: Although some factors placing geriatric patients at risk for hospitalization have been identified, little is known about drug-related problems that contribute to admissions. This study describes a protocol characterizing are associated with hospital readmissions. The achieves significant improvements over other studies because readmissions community classified and the type of problem relative contribution readmission assessed. Thirty-five percent (n = 706) were readmitted within 6 months their former discharge 45 drug-related. assessments three reviewers working independently agreed 82% (kappa 0.64). Eighteen cases identified as using also according ICD-9 coding procedure. One not received codes indicating problems. These findings suggest good reliability sensitivity. most frequently unexpected adverse drug reactions 10), patient noncompliance (10), overdose (8), lack necessary therapy (6) underdose (5). Drug-related major reason, rather than contributory in half cases. identifies specific could become targets preventive interventions. majority (76%) potentially preventable types found indicate interventions should be focused on both physicians patients.