title: Timely symptom management at end of life using 'just in case' boxes.
abstract: This article discusses the successful implementation of anticipatory prescribing using 'just in case' boxes (JICB) in primary care across the Grampian region and a subsequent follow up survey one year later. The implementation approach used local educational sessions to primary care clinicians. The survey was distributed to 65 primary care bases to gauge awareness and use of the JICB and thoughts about how the box was used. An estimate of prescription costs was undertaken using stock balance forms. The response rate was 89%. All respondents had heard about the JICB and most had used a JICB. There were 37 positive comments about the benefits to patients, 15 comments about the process and 11 negative comments, often about possible drug wastage. The cost of a prescription was estimated at pounds 22.12. The findings have informed our ongoing educational programme and build on the strong links that exist between primary care and the specialist palliative care service.
authors: NHS Gramrpian, Aberdeen. slawton@nhs.net
authors: Sally
authors: S
authors: Lawton
authors: Margaret
authors: M
authors: Denholm
authors: Lisa
authors: L
authors: Macaulay
authors: Eileen
authors: E
authors: Grant
authors: Alison
authors: A
authors: Davie
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003152:Community Health Nursing; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D016527:Drug Costs; D011307:Drug Prescriptions / Q000191:economics / Q000451:nursing; D004358:Drug Therapy / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D006284:Health Plan Implementation; D006801:Humans; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000191:economics; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000191:economics; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011320:Primary Health Care; D012606:Scotland; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000191:economics