Adverse drug reactions in older people following hospitalisation: a qualitative exploration of general practitioners’ perspectives

Older people have greater comorbidity and medication burden. Adverse drug reactions occur in up to 30% of older people within one month of hospital discharge. General practitioners are key stakeholders in transitions of care from hospital to the community.

The study aimed to explore general practitioner perspectives of adverse drug reactions in older people after hospitalisation, investigating the medication-related issues encountered and possible approaches to reduce the risk.

An invitation to participate in the study was sent to general practitioners in Southern Tasmania, Australia. A semi-structured interview occurred in person at their practice or online. The questions covered experiences with managing medication in older people after hospital discharge, challenges and risks involving adverse drug reactions and suggestions to prevent adverse drug reactions. The interviews were transcribed and analysed through thematic analysis.

Twelve general practitioners were interviewed, revealing four themes describing challenges, including (i) complex patients and acceptance of risk, (ii) patient confusion and decline in hospital, (iii) time taken to manage older patients and (iv) communication challenges. Three themes describing recommendations were identified, including (i) clear communication on discharge, (ii) patient involvement and (iii) roles for pharmacists.

Prevention of adverse drug reactions after hospital discharge may require clear and timely communication to general practitioners, patients and families to be educated and empowered to help manage their own health and risk, and pharmacists to support both patients and general practitioners in managing the risks.