Pharmacist's Role in an Interdisciplinary Falls Clinic
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2011
Description
Falls are caused by many factors in older patients. Medications have been shown to be a risk factor for falls, and studies have shown that patients taking more than five total medications may have a two-fold increased risk of impaired balance. A more recent model suggests only medications with sedating and anticholinergic properties contribute significantly to physical impairment. The authors of this paper helped to develop a multidisciplinary clinic to evaluate the risk of falls in at-risk patients. We present the case of a woman on multiple medications that increased her risk of falling. Of note, this patient was taking a total of 14 prescription medications, seven of which were considered sedating. Based on a comprehensive medication evaluation, six specific changes were recommended to improve this patient's medication regimen and reduce her risk of falling.
Citation Information
Flores, Emily K.; Henry, Robin; and Stewart, David W.. 2011. Pharmacist's Role in an Interdisciplinary Falls Clinic. Southern Medical Journal. Vol.104(2). 143-146. https://doi.org/10.1097/SMJ.0b013e318200c1ec PMID: 21206419 ISSN: 0038-4348