Preparation makes perfect

Article Abstract:

A hospital in Hull, UK, has introduced a self-medication programme for the medical elderly. Patients are supervised by a nurse and are encouraged to follow instructions about their medication to see if they take it correctly. The programme has revealed that over 50% of patients have problems in doing so. A risk assessment score is calculated, based on the patient's mental state, the number of items to be taken, the patient's physical health and their attitude towards taking it. The total score gives an indication of the chances of problems occurring, and steps can be taken to overcome them.

Self medication

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Look again

Article Abstract:

General practitioners (GP) must offer annual screening to all patients aged over 75 years to assess their health care needs. A study in Nottinghamshire, UK, showed that only 55% of elderly patients were screened in 1992 and 43% had had new problems since then. The GP or nurses who carry out the screening may not have the experience or knowledge to assess these patients accurately, and may not take their problems seriously. Day-centre attendance or respite care is not always offered, and those in long-term care need to be reassessed to ensure they still need to be there.

Social aspects, Physician and patient, Physician-patient relations, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Medical screening, Health screening

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When profits come first

Article Abstract:

Private companies which provide care for the elderly are looking for increased profits at the expense of quality patient care. Care assistants are paid between 2.90-3.50 pounds sterling per hour and have little annual leave. Agency staff who have already worked shifts elsewhere are often employed and accountants demand staff cuts if beds are vacant. Patients who attract higher fees, such as mental health patients or those with disabilities, are being targeted by the private sector. More regulation and inspection is needed to ensure that patients are not exploited.

Economic aspects, Profit, Profits, Nursing homes

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