TRENDS IN ADVERSE DRUG EVENT ADMISSIONS AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN THE UNITED STATES

Abstract

Abstract Older adults experience adverse drug events (ADEs) putting them at risk for increased morbidity and mortality. Utilizing the 2018 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project’s National Inpatient Sample, we identified the prevalence of ADE admissions among adults 65 and older and examined the differences in characteristics and discharge outcomes in those with and without a primary diagnosis of an ADE (n=2,647,673). ADEs accounted for 7.4% of discharges and had higher odds of needing post-discharge care including transfer to a skilled nursing facility (OR=1.08, 95% CI [1.07, 1.09]) and home-health care (OR=1.1, 95% CI [1.09,1.1]). In the ADE group, hospital charges were higher ($39,609 vs. $38,649, p< .01) and length of stay (6+ days) longer (OR=1.53, 95% CI [1.52,1.55]). Opiates, diabetic agents, benzodiazepines and narcotics were frequently associated with ADEs. Older adults discharged after an ADE have increased healthcare utilization. Education on medication self-management is needed to prevent ADEs in older adults.