Adverse Drug Reactions among Critically Ill Patients at Cairo University Hospital: Frequency and Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are common problem in intensive care units where the poly pharmacy is involved in treating patients. Control of such events is possible if it is identified and reported. However, reporting of adverse drug reactions still in its infancy. Aim: the aim is to assess the frequency and outcomes of adverse drug reactions among critically ill patients at Cairo university hospital. Research questions: 1- What is the frequency of adverse drug reactions among a selected sample of critically ill patients at Cairo university hospital? 2- What is the outcome of adverse drug reactions among a selected sample of critically ill patients at Cairo university hospital? 3- What is the degree of severity of adverse drug reactions among a selected sample of critically ill patients at Cairo university hospital? Design: Descriptive exploratory design was utilized.  Setting: The study was carried out at the Critical Care Department affiliated to Cairo University Hospitals. Subjects: A convenience sample of 150 male & female critically ill adult patients receiving different types of medications constituted the study sample. Tools: Two tools were utilized in the study, 1.Sociodemographic and medical data sheet and, 2.Adverse drug reactions assessment sheet. Results: The study results revealed that one of fifth (21%) of study sample were suffered from adverse drug reactions. ADRs were represented on the patients in the form of dry mouth, abdominal distension, headache, insomnia, constipation, tachycardia, peripheral edema, hypertension, hypotension, cough, drowsiness. Severity of adverse drug reactions was ranged from mild severity (41.9%) to moderate and severe reaction (9.7%). Conclusion: The prevalence of adverse drug reactions among critically ill patients is prevalent in a ratio of nearly (21%); and, more than half of these reactions were life-threatening. Recommendation: A written hospital policy describing basic standards in management of ADRs is recommended to be established and before initiation of new medication, assess for potential drug–disease and drug–drug interactions, check dosages, and check the most common causes of ADRs, then starting new drugs.

Key wards: Adverse drug reactions, poly pharmacy, critically ill patients, Frequency, Outcomes