Question

How does poly pharmacy contribute to the development of iatrogenic events in older adults? how can the nurse intervene to disrupt the iatrogenic cascade?

Answer 1

Polypharmacy means multiple drugs.In older adults poly pharmacy causes various iatrogenic events such as physical,mental or emotional problems include delirium,infections,malnourishment,confusion.This is due to the adverse reaction of medications.Older adults health status can easily affect by drugs because they have low immunity and strength of the muscles and nerve coordination are poor comparing to young people.

Iatrogenic events leads prolonged hospitalization,morbidity and even mortality.

The nurse should periodically assess the general health status and response to diagnostic,therapeutic and prophylactic procedures.Strict aseptic practices helps to avoid hospital acquired infections.

Check for pressure ulcers,fecal impaction.

Continous evaluation of client's emotional status and mental health.Prevent complications after the therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.

Systematic care delivery and assess side effects of drugs proper recording and reporting of iatrogenic events helps to avoid morbidity and mortality.