Abstract: Objective: To investigate the status quo of uses of medication among institutionalized old people in Chongqing. Methods: Using the stratified sampling method, a total of 203 old people from 12 nursing facilities in Chongqing were investigated with questionnaires including demographic information, status quo and knowledge-attitude-practice of uses of medication. Results: Types of medication, ways of taking medication, affordability of healthcare cost, and side effects of medication of the elderly varied among nursing facilities, as well as attentions that the staff paid to the status of uses of medication among the elderly. Scores for belief of uses of medication among the elderly in nursing homes which provided medical services were significantly higher than those in the other two types of nursing facilities, namely, nursing homes which did not provide medical services and senior apartments. Scores for medication adherence among the elderly in nursing homes which provided medical services were significantly higher than those in nursing homes which did not provide medical services. The belief of the uses of medication and the frequency of taking medication, as well as staff's attentions were the main factors influencing medication adherence. Conclusion: There are big differences in the status quo of uses of medication among the elderly in different nursing facilities. The medication safety for the elderly in nursing homes which provided medical services is relatively better. It is necessary to promote the transformation and development of nursing facilities to those which incorporate the internet, medical care and pension.

Key words: nursing facilities; medication; investigation