Study of medication use and effects of medication among hospitalized older Buddhist monks: An embedded mixed‐method study

Abstract

AimThe aim was to study medication use, effects of medication and perspective of participants involved in medication use among hospitalized older Buddhist monks.DesignAn embedded mixed‐method study.MethodsThis study included 71 hospitalized older Buddhist monks and 23 participants involved in medication use. Quantitative data were collected from medical and medication records. Meanwhile, qualitative data were collected by using in‐depth interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The study lasted from February to July 2021.ResultsOver 77% of the monks had chronic diseases. The median of medicine use was seven medicines/person and 6 days of use. Effects of the medication were as expected (52.04%), not as expected (2.22%) and unmeasurable results (45.74%). Unexpected results were hypo‐hyperglycaemia, nausea/vomiting, high blood pressure and confusion. From the interview, participants perceived and did not perceive unique practices and medication use in Buddhist monks. In addition, the Buddhist monks received medication following standards and Buddhist doctrine. Finally, recommendations for medication use were adhering to the standard, following Buddhist doctrine and being flexible as deemed necessary.ConclusionThe results revealed medication use problems and medication effects among hospitalized older Buddhist monks.ImpactOlder adults and Buddhist monks have specific needs and practices related to culture and religion, affecting typical treatment, especially medication use. Cultural diversity and sensitivity should be a concern for healthcare staff. The results can be utilized to promote an understanding of cultural diversity and increase the safety of medication administration for hospitalized older Buddhist monks.Patient and Public ContributionPatient and public contributions were involved in this study. Participants involved in medication use were interviewed to answer the research objective. Moreover, a senior Buddhist monk at Wat Thai Washington D.C. reviewed content related to the Pali Canon for the final draft of the manuscript.Clinical Trial Registration Number https://osf.io/b6p3e