Blogs

Crushing these medications can cause dose dumping, releasing the entire dose at once instead of gradually. This can increase the risk of side effects or toxicity.

A recurring medication selection error occurs when Gabarone (gabapentin) tablets are selected instead of Neurontin (gabapentin) capsules. This can happen during order entry, medication reconciliation, or e-prescribing when the active ingredient and strength appear similar.‍

Improving the recognition and management of TD presents an important opportunity to enhance resident care. Early identification can lead to more timely interventions, improved comfort, and better clinical outcomes.

As the NCAA March Madness tournament reaches the Final Four, success comes down to execution and minimizing errors. The same is true in long-term care.

Each March, the March Madness tournament highlights performance under pressure, where outcomes depend on consistency, fundamentals, and well-defined roles. Medication management in long-term care is no different.

Effective diabetes management in long-term care and assisted living settings is critically important due to its high prevalence and the ongoing vigilance required for successful control. A thorough understanding of the associated challenges and risks is essential, as both can be significant.

October 19 marks the beginning of International Infection Prevention Week, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preventing infections.

June marks Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month—a time to focus on proactive brain health and the evolving care strategies for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. At SpecialtyRx, we’re taking this opportunity to share practical ways facilities can support residents, educate staff and families, and stay informed on current treatment options.

At SpecialtyRx, every month is Safety Month—but in June, we proudly join the national spotlight to raise awareness around medication safety. As a leading long-term care pharmacy, SpecialtyRx is committed to delivering safe, accurate, and clinically appropriate medications through a multifaceted approach that combines advanced technology, clinical expertise, and an unwavering focus on quality.

As temperatures rise and weather conditions become more unpredictable, SpecialtyRx takes proactive steps to ensure the safety, efficacy, and availability of medications across all of our facilities — especially in regions where heat and extreme weather are seasonal challenges.

In 2024, the National Youth Tobacco Survey revealed a significant decrease in e-cigarette use among U.S. middle and high school students, with current use dropping from 2.13 million (7.7%) in 2023 to 1.63 million (5.9%) in 2024.

As we start off 2025, it is important to review any changes that will take place with regards to CMS surveys and other regulatory updates. The CMS has updated the survey guidance and revised the State Operations Manual that will be effective as of February 24, 2025. Surveyors will begin using the new guidance for all surveys as of the above effective date. The goal is to streamline the survey process and eliminate overlapping citations. The following are some of the guidances that have been revised. Your team should review and ensure that changes in your processes have been made to maintain compliance with new standards.