THE Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has today launched a national Standard to improve the care of people with cognitive disabilities or impairments.
The 'Psychotropic Medicines in Cognitive Disability or Impairment Clinical Care Standard' aims to ensure the responsible use of psychotropic medicines, promoting safer and more effective treatments.
Over the past three decades, prescriptions for psychotropic medicines have increased by 60% across Australia.
Older adults, particularly those in aged care, are at a 22% higher risk of death within the first 100 days of being prescribed antipsychotics.
A third of individuals with intellectual disabilities are also exposed to the potential risks of these medications.
Juanita Breen, a credentialed pharmacist from University of Tasmania, who specialises in dementia research, said regular review of medications is needed, as well as exploring non-pharmacological approaches.
"When people with intellectual disability or impairment receive care in different settings, this can result in a disjointed and inconsistent experience, which can be very difficult to navigate.
"Effective communication during transitions of care and support for decision-making processes is essential to upholding patient autonomy and safety," said Breen.
The standard applies to all settings where people with cognitive disabilities get care. JG
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 09 May 24
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 09 May 24
