Why is it important to perform a medication reconciliation?

Performing medication reconciliation is crucial because it directly addresses the prevention of medication errors and ensures safe prescribing practices. This process involves reviewing and comparing a patient's medication orders with what the patient has been taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and any other substances that may interact with prescribed treatments.

By meticulously verifying this information, healthcare providers can identify discrepancies such as omissions, duplications, dosing errors, or potential drug interactions. This is particularly important during transitions of care—such as when a patient is admitted to a hospital, transferred between units, or discharged—to prevent adverse drug events that could compromise patient safety.

Medication reconciliation not only supports the delivery of appropriate pharmacological therapies but also fosters communication among healthcare providers, patients, and their families, promoting a more integrated and patient-centered approach to medication management.