Proton Pump Inhibitor Deprescribing Algortihm Education in an Outpatient Primary Care Setting

Abstract

Background: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most commonly prescribed class of medication worldwide and are used for various indications as they work to suppress gastric acid secretion. Recent studies have identified adverse effects associated with long-term PPI use including anemia, pneumonia, kidney disease, osteoporosis, myocardial infarction, and Clostridium difficile infection. A needs assessment was conducted at an Oregon City, Oregon primary care clinic to determine the PPI prescribing and deprescribing practices. The findings suggest that the clinic may benefit from an intervention aimed at increasing PPI deprescribing. Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement an evidence-based PPI deprescribing algorithm and educational presentation at an outpatient primary care clinic. The aim of this project was to determine the providers’ (n=6) attitudes towards the algorithm. Methods: A five-minute evidence-based PowerPoint presentation for all clinic provider participants regarding the significance of the clinical issue, current literature, and the algorithm was done at a staff meeting. A pre and post-intervention survey utilizing the 5-Point Likert scale was distributed to determine providers’ attitudes. Results: All participants believed their knowledge was enhanced by the educational session and algorithm and intend to use the algorithm in their future PPI deprescribing practice.