Incorporation of Pharmacist in Conducting Medication Reviews for Identification of Risk of QT Prolongation: A Neglecting Latent Approach in Cardiology

Abstract

Sudden cardiac arrest correlates with QT-interval prolongation and torsade de points (TdP). Several medicines frequently used in geriatric aged care populations can cause QT prolongation. Major predisposing factors and QT-prolonging medications enhance QT interval prolongation incidence in medical inpatients. Pharmacists can help ensure safe drug therapy and in-hospital patient safety by paying attention to QT prolongation and extra risk factors for prolonged QT intervals during medication reconciliation. We recommend pharmacists improve knowledge and awareness of corrected QT prolongation (QTc) when conducting drug reviews. Implementation of Pharmacist-driven QTc monitoring is required to lower the risk of QTc prolongation.

Keywords

• QT Interval Prolongation
• Drug-Drug Interaction
• Pharmacists; Cardiology