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Psychiatric Bulletin (2007) 31: 300-303. doi: 10.1192/pb.bp.106.012328
© 2007 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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Lorazepam prescription and monitoring in acute adult psychiatric wards

Aislinn Choke, Senior House Officer

General Adult Psychiatry, Morden Community Mental Health Team, Nelson Hospital, Kingston Road, London SW20 8DB, email: aislinndornan{at}hotmail.com

Mani V. Perumal, Senior House Officer

South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust, London

Mary Howlett, Consultant Psychiatrist

General Adult Psychiatry, South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust, London

Declaration of interest

None.

AIMS AND METHOD

This study examines prescription and monitoring of lorazepam on three acute adult psychiatric wards at a university teaching hospital. Retrospective data from 102 consecutive in-patients were analysed.

RESULTS

There were 83 patients (81.4%) who were prescribed lorazepam, however 45 of these (46%) were never administered it. Indication for lorazepam prescription was documented by the doctor in 35 patients (42.2%). Administration by nursing staff was documented in the medical notes on 86 occasions (60.0%) and on 32 of these (37.0%) the indication was unclear. On 21 occasions (14.7%) more than 2 mg was given; 13.7% of prescriptions were not reviewed and 64% of those reviewed after more than 4 weeks.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Lorazepam was overprescribed and inadequately monitored, which may increase the risk of dependence.




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Lorazepam in Acute Psychiatry Wards
Dr. Mukesh Kripalani, et al.
PB Online, 7 Jan 2008 [Full text]

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