Abstract

The establishment of guidelines focusing on the specific challenges and the clinical consequences of polypharmacy in the elderly population is a known research deficit. Throughout three semesters, this study has been conducted to identify primary care providers knowledge and practices regarding polypharmacy in the elderly, specifically in regard to the BEERS criteria. No standard definition exists for polypharmacy and creates a large barrier for universal healthcare. Nola Pender’s Health Promotion Model was used to guide the procedures of this study. Implementation of the project included obtaining consent from the Mississippi University for Women Institutional Review Board. Surveys were dispersed to primary care providers in the state of Mississippi. The data was gathered from 65 provider surveys who met the criteria to evaluate their knowledge and utilization of the BEERs criteria in the prevention and management of polypharmacy in the elderly. The researchers utilized a descriptive, quantitative survey design to assess the provider’s knowledge and current practices related to polypharmacy. Data from this research project was collected from a convenience sample of Nurse Practitioners, Physicians, and Physician Assistants who practice in a primary care setting. After collecting these surveys, the researchers were able to analyze the general knowledge and practices that the healthcare providers participated in. The design of this study was appropriate given limited time to collect data, participant accessibility, and the possibility of gaining relevant information through a survey method. Providers were found to be familiar with the BEERS criteria but gaps were found in the proficient utilization of the BEERS criteria. Although most providers in MS were knowledgeable of the BEERS criteria, there is a large percentage of providers who are note. A lack of a standard 8 definition of polypharmacy could contribute to these gaps. With the rising geriatric population, polypharmacy is expected to overwhelm the current healthcare processes. There is little documented research regarding polypharmacy, adverse drug reactions, and how to manage it. Tools have been created to help providers recognize and reduce polypharmacy as well as potential adverse reactions as a result of polypharmacy. The negative health outcomes and financial burdens are well documented, but no formal guidelines have been established. This is a result of lack of knowledge and awareness with polypharmacy prevention practices. More research is needed to develop a formal definition to define what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate use of polypharmacy and standardized practices for management and prevention.

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Department

Graduate Nursing

Degree Date

2023

First Advisor

Dr. Alena Groves

Second Advisor

Dr Teresa Hamill

Third Advisor

Dr. Sueanne Davidson

Document Type

Thesis

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