The Gold Standards Framework for Care Homes [GSFCH] and the Liverpool Care Pathway [LCP] guidance suggests the importance of obtaining anticipatory medication for the control of symptoms in the last days of life for nursing home (NH) residents. There is considerable wastage however as NH residents are dispensed anticipatory drugs on a named-patient basis. There is also evidence that when these drugs are not available residents are hospitalised inappropriately.

Aim The aims of the project were to explore the frequency of symptoms experienced in the dying phase and to explore whether there was a need for residents to have their own supply of drugs by examining wastage. The idea was to establish a process in order for homes to obtain anticipatory medication as ‘stock’ and to capture the benefits of doing this.

Process The managers of three NHs, who had shown interest in obtaining medication for the last days of life, met with a local GSFCH facilitator, specialist palliative care pharmacist and a pharmacist from the regulatory body. A proposal that included a list of necessary medication and how to acquire them was written. The NH staff developed the required Standard Operating Procedures. A prospective audit on medication used was commenced.

Results Significant improvements in the availability of anticipatory medication were found. 53% of residents were symptomatic highlighting the need to have anticipatory medication available. No medication other than “stock” was required by NHs. If all residents had their own supply of medication £4,506 worth of drugs would have been wasted. All staff involved perceived that this work had been beneficial.

Conclusion Anticipatory medication ‘as stock’ for people dying in NHs is an important step forward. There is less wastage of medication, less delay in controlling symptoms, reduced call out of GPs and less anxiety.