RCN response to Alzheimer’s Society survey on drug prescribing

Published: 08 October 2009

Dr Peter Carter, head of the RCN, today (7 October) responded to the Alzheimer's Society survey on prescribing of antipsychotic drugs. He said:

"This snapshot survey does not suggest that hospitals are awash with anti-psychotic drugs. It is important to realise that the majority of nurses say these are occasionally used and a quarter agree this is inappropriate. However, these are powerful drugs, and as with all strong drugs the side-effects can be dangerous. In the absence of a cure dementia is likely to affect increasing numbers of people for the foreseeable future. The important thing is that all staff administering these drugs should receive appropriate training, education and support - this will help them provide the highest standard of care for older people."

Ends

Notes for Editors

1. For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

2. Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.