Factors Associated With Benzodiazepine and Antipsychotic Prescribing in Hospice: A Qualitative Study of Hospice Prescribers.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Benzodiazepine and antipsychotic medications are common components of the hospice toolkit and are routinely prescribed for behavioral symptom management at end of life. These medications have significant associated risks but, despite their frequent use, little is known about how clinicians weigh prescribing decisions for individuals in hospice. In this qualitative study, we examined the key factors that influence the decision to initiate a benzodiazepine and antipsychotic medication for management of behavioral symptoms at end of life.

Design

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and descriptive qualitative analysis.

Setting and participants

We conducted semi-structured interviews with prescribing hospice physicians and nurse practitioners wo

SUBMITTER: Gerlach LB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10615326 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature