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International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy

Open Access 16-05-2024 | Research Article

Preliminary feasibility assessment of a targeted, pharmacist-led intervention for older adults with polypharmacy: a mixed-methods study

Authors: Lisheng Liu, Bernadette Brokenshire, Deborah Davies, Jeff Harrison

Published in: International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy

Abstract

Background

Polypharmacy is associated with the prescription of inappropriate medications and avoidable medication-related harm. A novel pharmacist-led intervention aims to identify and resolve inappropriate medication prescriptions in older adults with polypharmacy.

Aim

To conduct a preliminary feasibility assessment of the intervention in primary care, testing whether specific components of the intervention procedures and processes can be executed as intended.

Method

The mixed-methods study was approved by the New Zealand Health and Disability Ethics Committees and public health agency. Patients from a New Zealand general practice clinic were recruited over 4 weeks to receive the intervention. The preliminary feasibility assessment included measures of intervention delivery, patient-reported outcome measures, and perspectives from ten patients and six clinicians. Data were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively to determine if a full-scale intervention trial is warranted. The study's progression criteria were based on established research and guided the decision-making process.

Results

The intervention met the study's progression criteria, including patient recruitment, retention, and adherence to the intervention procedures. However, several modifications were identified, including: (1) enhancing patient recruitment, (2) conducting a preliminary meeting between the patient and pharmacist, (3) supporting pharmacists in maintaining a patient-centred approach, (4) reviewing the choice of patient-reported outcome measure, (5) extending the 8-week follow-up period, (6) allocating more time for pharmacists to conduct the intervention.

Conclusion

The study found the intervention feasible; however, additional development is required before progressing to a full-scale trial. This intervention has the potential to effectively reduce medication-related harm and improve outcomes for older adults with polypharmacy.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12621000268842 Date registered: 11/03/2021

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Preliminary feasibility assessment of a targeted, pharmacist-led intervention for older adults with polypharmacy: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Lisheng Liu
Bernadette Brokenshire
Deborah Davies
Jeff Harrison
Publication date: 16-05-2024
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy
Print ISSN: 2210-7703
Electronic ISSN: 2210-7711
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11096-024-01740-y

PD Dr. Carsten W. Israel

Developed by: Springer Medizin

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Preliminary feasibility assessment of a targeted, pharmacist-led intervention for older adults with polypharmacy: a mixed-methods study

Abstract

Background

Aim

Method

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration number

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Conclusion

Trial registration number

Please log in to get access to this content

2024 ESC Congress

Noise pollution dangerous for heart health

Post-TAVI follow up: deploying virtual assistants

Antihypertensives: more effective at morning or night?

Low Lp(a) levels unlikely to increase the risk of diabetes

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