Objective: To examine the feasibility of developing an in-reach parenteral iron infusion service to residents of residential aged care facilities (RACFs).
Methods: An audit comparing the use of iron infusions in RACFs prior to and following the introduction of an in-reach iron infusion service.
Results: Of the 738 inpatient iron infusions administered to inpatients ≥65 years in the 12 months prior to the in-reach service, 52 (7%) lived in an RACF, with no significant adverse events reported. After implementation of an in-reach service, a total of 37 RACF residents received parenteral iron in the first 12 months of the service, with no significant adverse events reported.
Conclusion: It is possible to safely provide parenteral iron through an in-reach service to residents in RACF. Further research is required to identify the person-level benefits achieved by this service.
Keywords: anemia; frail older adults; iron deficiency; residential facilities.
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