We have been working with the Lincolnshire Care Association, Lincolnshire CCG/STP and the University of Lincoln to evaluate the impact of a new supply pathway and processes for paracetamol in care homes.

There are many clinical circumstances in which paracetamol should be given regularly (for example in chronic osteoarthritis), but for other conditions (for example, colds, flu and headaches) it is more appropriate for residents to be involved in the decision making and for it to be given as required. The pilot looked to assess the potential benefits of introducing an alternative direct supply route, pathway process and policy.

The pilot was conducted in three nursing homes and one care home in Lincolnshire between December 2018 and December 2019 and consisted of initial GP reviews of patients, direct supply of paracetamol and a Care Home Medicine policy to support a new pathway.

The key questions underpinning the evaluation were around reduction of volume and cost of paracetamol, whether the pathway enabled pain control to be tailored better to residents’ needs and the overall benefits, any disadvantages and key recommendations to share with others considering a similar approach.

Results showed a significant reduction (85%) in the volume of paracetamol tablets administered (107,064 to 15,576) and (99%) reduction in costs (£38,652.69 to £263.23) during the pilot, compared to the equivalent time period pre-intervention.

The pathway also created new interactions and empowerment for both staff and residents.

You can access the evaluation report here.

The evaluation will be of great use for partners from Primary Care Networks, Clinical Commissioning Groups, Integrated Care Systems and Sustainability and Transformation Partnerships considering a similar pathway approach.

The evaluation and pathway change recommendations may be applicable to other medications. For example, the new directive within care homes to provide residents with a vitamin D supplement.

If you would like further information on the pilot or if you would like to discuss the process or findings in more depth, please get in touch with our medicines optimisation lead: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.