What is the purpose of medication reconciliation at discharge?

• A. To ensure continuity of therapy by aligning medications with the outpatient regimen and preventing errors.
• B. To reduce readmission by any means.
• C. To compile a list for pharmacy only.
• D. To assess patient satisfaction with therapy.

Answer: (A)

Medication reconciliation at discharge centers on ensuring safe, continuous therapy as patients move from hospital to home. The goal is to align the discharge medication list with the patient’s outpatient regimen, catching omissions, duplications, or dosing errors and clarifying changes so the patient and their future care team know exactly what to take. This process reduces the risk of adverse drug events and ensures a smooth transition to ongoing therapy. While improving safety can help prevent readmissions, the primary purpose isn’t to reduce readmissions by any means, nor is it just for the pharmacy or a measure of satisfaction.