Polypharmacy, the simultaneous use of multiple medications, poses a significant concern for older adults due to its association with an increased risk of adverse drug events, drug interactions, and reduced adherence. Clinical issues associated with polypharmacy include increased morbidity and mortality, cognitive impairment, falls, and hospitalizations. These problems arise from age-related physiological changes, multiple chronic conditions, and the frequent need for complex medication regimens. With the rising older adult population and comorbid conditions, the prevalence of polypharmacy has significantly increased.Healthcare providers should implement strategies such as comprehensive medication reviews, deprescribing unnecessary medications, and using tools, such as the Beers Criteria, to identify potentially inappropriate medications and mitigate these risks. Collaborative care with pharmacists, consistent patient education, and utilizing electronic health records to monitor and manage prescriptions can improve medication safety and effectiveness.This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance learners’ proficiency in evaluating and managing polypharmacy-associated health risks. Participants gain a deeper understanding of polypharmacy’s risk factors, origins, and best detection and intervention methods. The role of the interprofessional team in optimizing health outcomes is also highlighted. Greater competence enables learners to collaborate effectively within an interprofessional team caring for patients facing the risks of polypharmacy.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/131249
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABOS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABOS)
ABPATH - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABA - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABA)
ABTS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABTS)
ABIM - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABOHNS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABOHNS)
ABTS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABTS) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: Adult Cardiac, All Practice Areas (e.g. ethics), Ambulatory/Outpatient, Cardiothoracic, Cardiovascular, Critical Care, General Operative Anesthesia, General Orthopaedics, General Otolaryngology, General Surgery, General Thoracic, Hospital Medicine, Internal Medicine, Non-Thoracic Surgery