What is typically included in a medication reconciliation process?

The medication reconciliation process is critical in ensuring patient safety and effective pharmacotherapy throughout transitions in care. It involves a systematic approach to reviewing and comparing the patient's current medication list against their previous medication lists. This comparison helps identify discrepancies, such as omitted medications, duplications, or potential interactions, ultimately aiming to maintain continuity of care and prevent medication errors.

By focusing on this comparison, healthcare providers can ensure that any changes to medication regimens are clinically justified and communicated effectively. This thorough review helps to enhance patient safety, particularly during transitions such as admission, transfer between departments, or discharge.

While creating new prescription orders, verifying discharge instructions, or removing medications might be part of the broader patient care process, they do not encapsulate the primary focus and purpose of the medication reconciliation process. The essence of reconciliation lies in confirming and aligning medication lists to provide a comprehensive overview of a patient's medication therapy.