Hospitalization and death associated with potentially inappropriate medication prescriptions among elderly nursing home residents.

Using a designated criteria system for inappropriate medication prescribing, this study examined the impact of such prescriptions on hospitalization and death. Studying more than 3300 nursing home residents, investigators reported greater odds of being hospitalized in the month following an inappropriate prescription, an associated greater risk of death, and similar risk with even intermittent exposure to such prescriptions. The authors conclude that their reported associations call for improved attention and education for providers who prescribe medications to the elderly.