Identification of Iatrogenic Drug Events Upon Admission to the Adult Emergency Departments

Pharmacists working within a multidisciplinary team have a role to play in detecting the potential iatrogenic origin of a hospital admission, in order to implement measures to improve medication use appropriately and limit readmissions for medication-related iatrogenesis. The iatrogenic detection process depends on the individual involved, their experience, and any tools consulted. Indeed, detection aids have their place in this process and aim for better identification. For example, a questionnaire called AT HARM 10 was developed by a team of experienced pharmacists to identify hospitalizations related to medication-related iatrogenesis. The use of this tool has been validated for pharmacists as well as for pharmacy students: interns and fifth-year medical students.

Identifying iatrogenic drug events among patients presenting to the emergency department using the AT HARM 10 grid in order to intervene and adapt therapeutic management. This clinical pharmacy activity complements what is already included in routine care (medication review, pharmaceutical analysis, and pharmaceutical intervention to adapt treatment).