Statistics reveal for one state that anti-psychotic drugs are over-administered to nursing home patients more than any other state in the country. The concern is for patients with no psychiatric diagnosis, but are administered these drugs for restraining combativeness. The governor of this state just signed a bill that would require consent from the patient and/or the patient’s responsible party before administering these drugs.
A senator and author of the bill stated the negative consequences and potential dangers that these potent drugs create for nursing home patients when used inappropriately. These risks include stroke, pneumonia, cognitive decline, and increased falls due to sedation. For more, read the story.
