Strategies employed and experiences associated with the implementation of pharmaceutical services and interventions in geriatric wards: A scoping review

Abstract

Evidence indicates a lack of clarity regarding the contributions of interventions aimed at optimizing pharmacotherapy, primarily guided by pharmaceutical care, for clinically significant improvements in older individuals. Thus, there is a need to deepen the understanding of this scenario and the factors involved. Therefore, this study aims to map and summarize scientific evidence regarding experiences and strategies employed in providing pharmaceutical services and interventions in geriatric wards. A scoping review was conducted based on 3 electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science). Studies meeting the inclusion criteria, published up to September 2024, and in English, Spanish or Portuguese were selected. Experimental and observational studies were eligible for inclusion. Screening, eligibility, extraction and assessment of the studies were carried out by 2 independent researchers. The exploration of bibliographic databases yielded 3,976 references, and 40 studies were deemed suitable for inclusion. Predominantly conducted in countries with high human development, these studies categorized services and interventions as: (i) medication review; (ii) medication reconciliation; and (iii) pharmaceutical counselling. Highlighted tools included STOPP and START criteria, Beers criteria, and the Medication Appropriateness Index, facilitating identification of issues such as potentially inappropriate medications (27.6–90.8% of older individuals using at least 1 potentially inappropriate medication), drug-related problems (34.5–98.2% of patients with at least 1 drug-related problem) and adverse drug events (58–88.4% of patients with at least 1 adverse drug event). The acceptance rate of interventions exhibited considerable variation (13–95.3%). Only 10 studies evaluated clinical outcomes in patients. Barriers included the need for additional training for pharmacists in geriatrics, significant time investment, lack of continuity in assessments and a lack of recognition of interventions by other members of the multiprofessional team. There is a clear trend towards improving medication prescription adequacy and contributing to the quality of pharmacotherapy through pharmaceutical services and interventions in geriatric wards. However, several gaps still need to be addressed, and this review emphasizes identifying obstacles to be overcome, providing guidance for future investigations.