CDC research indicates that inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics for respiratory conditions is highest in the Urgent Care Setting at 45.7% and second highest in the Emergency Department at 24.6%. Taking the time to educate patients in these settings regarding the difference between a viral illness that does not require antibiotics and a bacterial infection is a key to managing this issue.
The readmission reduction efforts outlined by Becker’s not only improve patient care but also make sense as part of a hospital’s proactive risk management strategy.
A recent report, published in the Journal of Toxicology, found that people in the United States are making errors in dosing medications at home. Healthcare providers should be cognizant of the need for patient and caregiver education in the proper administration of both prescribed and over-the-counter medications.
A recent study showed a significant increase in patients’ proper use of pre-operative medications when they were provided with simple written instructions.