HQIN is presenting an educational series tailored for nursing home stand-up meetings, aimed at decreasing preventable emergency room (ED) visits and hospital readmissions. HQIN is sending out talking points that can be included in daily stand-up meetings to increase staff knowledge on relevant topics like effective communication, adverse drug events and infection prevention. The program is designed to empower nursing home staff with practical knowledge to foster a safer environment.
This week’s strategies include Adverse Drug Events – Anticoagulants. Below is an overview of information and resources.
- An adverse drug event (ADE) is harm that results from medication use. These events can be due to allergic reactions, side effects, overmedication and medication errors. Anticoagulant medications are necessary for the treatment of some conditions but are also a leading cause of ADEs resulting in ER visits or hospitalization. Review ADE risk factors and sign/symptoms on this Anticoagulant Antithrombotic Tip Sheet.
- Also, review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Adverse Drug Events in Adults for more safety information.
- Review your policy for medication education. Blood Thinner Pills: Your Guide to Using Them Safely provides resources for educating residents and families.
- Evaluating your facility’s anticoagulant program can assist you with identifying and addressing opportunities for improvement.
- This Anticoagulant Adverse Drug Events Self-Assessment provides a checklist for anticoagulant programs.