What is meant by "medication reconciliation"?

Medication reconciliation refers to the systematic process of comparing a patient's current medication orders to the medications they are actually taking. This process is essential for ensuring the accuracy and safety of a patient's medication regimen, particularly during transitions of care, such as admission, transfer, or discharge from a healthcare facility.

When conducting medication reconciliation, healthcare providers review both prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs, including herbal supplements, to identify discrepancies. This helps to prevent issues such as medication errors, duplications, or interactions that could adversely affect patient safety.

In this context, the correct choice highlights the importance of collaboration among healthcare teams and emphasizes the need for clear communication about medication changes. Overall, medication reconciliation is a vital component of effective medication management, aimed at optimizing therapeutic outcomes and ensuring continuity of care.