Probiotics for Elderly Patients on Antibiotics
Author Information
Author(s): Hsia Chu-Hsuan, Su Hsiu-Yueh, Chen Yue-Hwa, Chuang Han-Chuan, Chien Yi-Wen
Primary Institution: Taipei Medical University Hospital
Hypothesis
Does probiotic supplementation improve stool frequency and nutritional status in elderly hospitalized tube-fed patients using antibiotics?
Conclusion
Probiotic supplementation significantly reduced stool frequency during antibiotic treatment in elderly tube-fed patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Probiotics were given within 48 hours after starting antibiotics.
- Stool frequency decreased significantly in the probiotic group.
- Nutritional status remained stable throughout the study.
Takeaway
Giving probiotics to older patients who are fed through a tube and taking antibiotics can help them have fewer loose stools.
Methodology
Elderly hospitalized tube-fed patients using antibiotics were given probiotics within 48 hours of starting antibiotics and monitored for stool form and frequency.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small sample size and the inability to contact family members for consent.
Limitations
Small sample size and incomplete data from the control group.
Participant Demographics
Elderly patients aged 65 and older, with an average age of 80.0 years in the probiotic group.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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