Measurement and Interventions for Medicine Waste in Healthcare Institutions

Abstract

Background: Medication waste is a significant challenge in the Netherlands, incurring substantial financial costs and environmental impacts. The healthcare sector accounts for 4% of the total waste and consumes 13% of raw materials, with unused medication costing at least €100 million annually. However, the extent of medication waste in nursing homes remains unknown.

Objectives: This study aims to quantify medication waste across various departments of the Van Neynsel eldercare institution and develop interventions to reduce medicine waste.

Methods: A four-week tracking period was conducted between February and March 2024 at Van Neynsel, encompassing 416 beds across somatic, psychogeriatric, first-line care, and geriatric revalidation departments. Wasted medication was collected from the pharmacy and categorized into general medication, opiates, and medication in rolls. Medication waste was quantified in units, weight (kg), and value (euros). Nursing staff in representative departments recorded reasons for wastage using a standardized form. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and interventions were developed through group discussions with healthcare professionals.

Results: The study tracked medication waste over four weeks, revealing a total of 12,163 units, comprising 41.2 kg of waste, valued at €5,461.53. Based on these findings, specific interventions were developed to optimize inventory practices, encourage the use of home medication, reduce as-needed medication supplies, and improve the ordering process. These interventions included adding macrogol and paracetamol to the departmental inventory, supplying less as-needed medication, and involving nursing staff more closely in the medication assessment process. The devised interventions showed potential in reducing waste, focusing on inventory management, home medication, as-needed medication, and the ordering process.

Conclusion: Medication waste in healthcare settings presents substantial environmental and economic challenges. The measurement identified substantial medication waste in terms of quantity, weight, and costs, revealing opportunities for waste reduction. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions and provides a foundation for improving medication management practices.