Medication management in intellectual disability settings: A systematic review

Abstract

There is a high level of medication usage among people with intellectual disability due to the presence of significant morbidity and co-morbidities. This review sought to explore medication management and administration in intellectual disability settings, identifying frameworks for practice, analysing whether collaborative practice led to better outcomes, identifying key processes associated with practice, locating tools to support practice and describing metrics for outcome measurement. A systematic review was conducted with analysis of 64 sources which remained following screening and appraisal. Limited evidence was identified with some insight into the processes underpinning medication management and administration. No assessment tools were found, but two potential outcome measures, adherence and errors, were noted. The paucity of guidelines and frameworks is concerning as this is a complex area of practice. There is a need for further practice development and research to be undertaken that takes note of the unique issues that can present in intellectual disability settings.