Multivitamins in Long-term Care; Effect on Infections
The purpose of this study is to assess the effect
of multivitamins on the number of infections in elderly residents
(65 years of age or older) of long-term care facilities. This
study involves 21 nursing homes and homes for the aged in the
Toronto area. Written informed consent has been obtained from
750 residents or their guardian. Residents are randomized to receive
either a daily multivitamin pill or a placebo in a double-blind
fashion for the 19 months of the study. General demographic information
such as age, date of admission, medical history and medication
was collected on all participants at the beginning of the study.
The types and numbers of infections participants have are provided
by the facility infection control practitioner and chart audits
are done by the study coordinator. Information on antibiotic use,
the number of hospitalizations and mortality will also be collected.
