Study Reveals Overprescribing of Antibiotics in Nursing Homes

antibiotics in nursing homesA new study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine medical journal examined the use of antibiotics in Ontario nursing homes, and revealed an increased use of these drugs in Ontario nursing homes.

According to the study, about two-thirds of nursing home residents receive antibiotic treatments each year. However, this could be too much of a good thing as prescribing these drugs incorrectly can increase the risk of adverse reactions.

Has someone you love been overprescribed antibiotics or any other medication that led to a medical condition or illness? Our experienced nursing home abuse lawyers can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.

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According to the lead author of the study, Dr. Nick Daneman, there is a consistent finding that about one-third to one-half of antibiotic treatments are unnecessary.

Looking into Ontarios nursing home population, the study revealed that for every 1,000 days a resident spent in a nursing home, on average, they were prescribed antibiotics on 55 of those days.

The numbers did vary by facility and in some cases, residents were prescribed antibiotics 193 days out of 1,000 days spent in a nursing home.

The overuse of antibiotics is dangerous as it can lead to allergic reactions, diarrhea and infections by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Researchers grouped nursing homes based by low use, medium use, and high use of antibiotics. Homes with a high-use of antibiotics tended to be rural, for-profit facilities.

Among residents in high-use facilities who received antibiotics, about 14 percent experienced adverse reactions.

Misdiagnosis of an infection is one of the most common reasons why an antibiotic was overprescribed. It can be difficult to diagnose infections among older adults as their symptoms differ from those who are younger. Urinary tract infections were the most frequently over diagnosed type of infection.

At Greg Monforton & Partners, our injury lawyers in Windsor believe that those who are most vulnerable should not be taken advantage of or left to deal with adverse reactions to wrongfully prescribed medications.

If someone you love has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, contact our experienced lawyers. We will thoroughly investigate the details of your claim and work hard to ensure you receive the justice you and your family deserve.

Fill out our free case evaluation to get started today.