813 Improving Discharge Medication Compliance for Secondary Prevention in Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Quality Improvement Project
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Aim Adherence to discharge medications is critical in preventing recurrent cardiovascular events in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This quality improvement project evaluated and aimed to improve compliance with discharge medications—Atorvastatin 80mg, Rivaroxaban 2.5mg, and Aspirin 100mg—following COMPASS trial recommendations. Method A four-week data collection period was followed by sequential interventions to address medication errors. Week 1 served as the baseline with no intervention. In Week 2, a poster detailing correct medication dosages was displayed on the ward. Week 3 involved an email reminder to junior doctors emphasizing proper dosing. In Week 4, a consultant-led discussion reinforced discharge medication protocol. Compliance was assessed through review of discharge prescriptions. Results Baseline compliance (Week 1) was low: Atorvastatin 16.67%, Rivaroxaban 0%, and Aspirin 0%. By Week 2, compliance improved slightly: Atorvastatin 20%, Rivaroxaban 0%, and Aspirin 20%. The email intervention in Week 3 resulted in a significant improvement: Atorvastatin 75%, Rivaroxaban 25%, and Aspirin 50%. In Week 4, compliance stabilized: Atorvastatin 50%, Rivaroxaban 25%, and Aspirin 50%. Conclusions The email intervention proved most effective for improving atorvastatin compliance, but Rivaroxaban adherence remained suboptimal. Future efforts should include targeted education, clearer dosing guidelines, and continuous staff reinforcement. Additionally, involving specialist pharmacists as part of the vascular MDT within vascular hubs could enhance medication management for this high-risk group, ensuring more tailored and consistent care.
Source: British journal of surgery
Authors: Y C Saw, M Lumsden, E Small
Institution: NHS Grampian
Language: English
Subfield: Family Practice
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4411679848