Characteristics of the family medicine chest in the Rekaldeberri-Bilbao neighborhood
Mintegi Maiz, I.; Alvarez Mandalúniz, I.; Artola Gutiérrez, C.; Causo Mouriz, C.; Ibáñez Pérez, F.; Muguruza Arrese, I.; Olaskoaga Arrate, A.
Atencion Primaria 16(7): 397-398; 400-2; 404-406
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0212-6567 PMID: 7495948 Document Number: 449122
To study the characteristics of first-aid kits used by families in the Rekaldeberri area of Bilbao (Spain) and their relationship with social and economic variables. Cross-sectional study. Households of 319 patients of the Health Center. Interview with family and observation of first-aid kit used at home. A total number of 5170 medicines were computed with a median of 14 per household (range 1-58). More medicines were seen at households where a higher social prevailed. No relationship was found with respect to people over 65 or children under 7 nor with regard to the fact that some people were undergoing chronic treatment. The most represented anatomic & therapeutic groups are N (Central Nervous System): 19.7% and D (Dermatological): 19%. Expired medicines were found in 52.7% of the households. "Hazardous locations" were found in 3.4% of the households. Our population stores-up large quantities of medicines. There is a population group, however, that does not even have a basic first-aid family kit capable of meeting primary needs. Counselling relative to expiration of medicines is thus required.