Which of the following processes is critical during patient transitions of care?

Medication reconciliation is a vital process during patient transitions of care because it ensures the accuracy and completeness of a patient’s medication information. This process involves reviewing the patient's current medications, identifying any discrepancies such as omissions, duplications, or interactions, and resolving these issues with the patient’s healthcare team.

When patients transition from one care setting to another—such as from hospital to home or between different hospitals—there is a risk of medication errors, which can lead to adverse drug events, hospital readmissions, and compromised patient safety. By thoroughly reconciling medications, healthcare providers can ensure that patients are correctly informed about their medications, understand how to take them, and recognize any changes from their previous regimen. This process is crucial for promoting continuity of care and enhancing the overall quality of patient outcomes during these transitions.