June c2c updatedJune: Reducing the Use of Anti-Psychotics 

As part of the CtoC initiative, each month THCA provides relevant news and best practices on a specific quality topic related to long term care. This June, THCA shares information and resources for reducing the use of anti-psychotics in nursing homes.

 

 

Read on for resources and case studies to successfully reduce anti-psychotic off-label use in nursing homes.

 

National Partnership to Improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes Trend Update.

The National Partnership to improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes Trend Update is available, showing progress made by nursing homes to reduce the use of antipsychotic medications through person-centered evaluations that determine the individual’s need.  CMS promotes a multi-dimensional approach for facilities striving to better monitor and manage the use of antipsychotics.

See where trends are moving from 2011 to 2014 and how Texas rates compared to other states and national regions.

 

 

THCA Member Spotlight: Genesis HealthCare

Searching for some practical tools to help reduce antipsychotic off-label use? Learn how Genesis HealthCare helped one member facility achieve the lowest rate for the use of antipsychotics in Texas, according to AHCA Trend Tracker data.

 

 

Restrained Use of Antipsychotic Medications

Antipsychotic medications are a mainstay for managing major psychiatric illnesses, including schizophrenia, dementia, and bipolar disorder.  Unfortunately, these drugs are too often prescribed in situation where there is little evidence of benefit, but considerable risk of harm.  This publication is meant to serve as a resource for physicians about the appropriate conditions for prescribing antipsychotics to increase their efficacy.

 

 

Surveyor Checklist: Review of Care and Services for a Resident with Dementia.

This checklist intends to provide interpretive guidance for surveyors on the Review of Care and Services for a Resident with Dementia in five important areas.  These include:  Assessment and Underlying Cause Identification, Care Planning, Implementation of the Care Plan, Care Plan Revision/Monitoring and Follow Up, and Quality Assessment and Assurance.

 

Quick reference for education purposes regarding the need for Antipsychotic reduction.

The document provides a compilation of current and relevant research on the need to reduce the use of antipsychotic medications for those with dementia.

 

 

Quick reference for DADS/CMS:

List of approved and inadequate indications for use of Antipsychotic medications.

Antipsychotic medications are approved for use in treating serious illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and psychosis without dementia.  They should not be used as treatment for symptoms of wandering, mild anxiety and insomnia among others.  This quick reference guide provides an overview of approved uses for antipsychotic medications.