Review of laxative utilization in a skilled nursing facility.
J Am Geriatr Soc, 1978/12;26(12):544-9.
PMID: 101574
Impact factor: 7.538
Abstract
Laxatives are the most frequently prescribed drugs in long-term care facilities. Of all nursing home patients, 58 percent receive laxatives--often more than one, and usually on a "prn" basis. This pattern of dosage is probably used in an effort to prevent constipation. Selection of a laxative should be based on careful evaluation of the cause of constipation, with due consideration being given to differences in drug effectiveness and the incidence of side effects. A review of laxative utilization among 73 elderly patients in a large metropolitan skilled nursing facility showed a rational use of these drugs. However, more attention should have been paid to the dietary management of constipation.
MeSH terms
Aged; Cathartics; Constipation; Dietary Fiber; Drug Utilization; Female; Humans; Long-Term Care; Male; Skilled Nursing Facilities
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