[Characteristics of the family medicine chest in the Rekaldeberri-Bilbao neighborhood].
OBJECTIVE
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.


METHODS
Cross-sectional study.


METHODS
Households of 319 patients of the Health Center.


RESULTS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005190:Family; D005392:First Aid; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000600:supply & distribution; D012923:Social Class; D013030:Spain
D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations
Características del botiquín familiar en el barrio de Rekaldeberri-Bilbao.