Abstract / Description of output
Covert medication is the administering of medications to patients without their knowledge or consent and in disguised form - usually by concealing or mixing them into food or drink. A systematic literature review identified eight studies of covert medication, mostly based in nursing homes or psychiatric units, reporting covert medication use in 30-71% of institutions and to 1.5-17% of residents. Guidelines on the use of covert medication are reviewed, and practical guidance is provided for geriatric medicine specialists. Local policies should be clear to ensure: 1) covert medication is not given to patients with capacity; 2) the multidisciplinary team including pharmacist are involved; 3) the patients' capacity is assessed, documented and covert medication use agreed using the principles of appropriate legislation.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 3-8 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | CME Journal Geriatric Medicine |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 1 |
Publication status | Published - 2012 |
Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)
- Care homes
- Covert medication
- Dementia
- Incapacity