How does medication reconciliation contribute to patient safety?

Medication reconciliation is a critical process aimed at enhancing patient safety by systematically reviewing and optimizing a patient’s medication regimen. This practice involves comparing a patient's current medication orders to their medications taken previously, thereby identifying any discrepancies.

By thoroughly examining the patient’s medication history, healthcare providers can ensure that each medication is necessary, appropriately dosed, and does not interact negatively with other medications. This process helps in preventing errors that could lead to adverse drug events, thereby fostering better health outcomes for patients.

Furthermore, it promotes continuity of care, especially during transitions between care settings, such as from hospital to home or between different healthcare providers. As such, medication reconciliation is a proactive approach that ensures patients receive the right medications at the right time, significantly contributing to overall patient safety.