Many nursing home residents take blood pressure medications to manage their hypertension. However, some research suggests that these medications may increase the risk of falls and fractures in this population.
Study Design
Researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study of over 1,000 nursing home residents. They collected data on the residents’ blood pressure medication use, co-occurring medical conditions, and falls and fractures.
Results
The study found that residents who took blood pressure medications were more likely to experience a fall or fracture than those who did not take these medications.
Discussion
Potential Mechanisms
- Blood pressure medications may cause orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to dizziness and falls.
- These medications may also weaken bones by reducing bone mineral density.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should be aware of the potential risks of blood pressure medications in nursing home residents.
They should carefully consider the risks and benefits of these medications for each individual resident.
Alternative treatment options for hypertension in nursing home residents should be explored.
Conclusion
The study findings suggest that blood pressure medications may be associated with an increased risk of falls and fractures in nursing home residents.
Clinicians should consider this risk when prescribing blood pressure medications to this population.
Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to explore the mechanisms underlying the association between blood pressure medications and fracture risk.
Kind regards
H. Hodge
