A strategy to reduce laxative use among older people.

: Institutions can be places of routine and unquestioned practice in the administration of medications. In one mixed ward of psychogeriatric patients constipation was a common problem for which laxatives were routinely given. In this particular ward, many of the patients were receiving up to five different laxatives a day either orally or rectally. Dementia and being bed or chair-bound greatly increased the risk of chronic constipation. Excessive laxative use is another cause of chronic constipation. A review of practice and a decision implement a new approach was prompted by the arrival of new ward managers. The use of laxatives was stopped almost entirely and a new dietary regime was started. This article outlines how the changes were implemented.