A nurse is admitting a client to a medical-surgical unit.
When performing medication reconciliation for the client, which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A.
A. Compare new prescriptions with the list of medications the client reports
B.
B. Encourage the client to make his own list after he returns to his home
C.
Include a
ny adverse effects of the medications the client might develop
D.
Exclude nutritional supplements from the list of medications the client reports
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Compare new prescriptions with the list of medications the client reports.
Explanation:
Medication reconciliation is a critical process in ensuring patient safety and avoiding medication errors during transitions of care, such as when a client is admitted to a medical-surgical unit. The primary goal of medication reconciliation is to prevent discrepancies between the medications the patient is currently taking and the new medications prescribed during hospitalization. This process helps identify any potential issues, such as drug interactions, duplications, or omissions.
Option A involves comparing new prescriptions with the list of medications the client reports. This is the correct approach because it ensures that all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, are accurately documented and reviewed. The nurse should obtain a comprehensive medication history from the client, which includes all current medications, dosages, frequencies, and routes of administration. This list should then be compared with the new orders to ensure continuity of care and to avoid potential medication errors.
Option B suggests encouraging the client to make his own list after returning home. While patient education is important, medication reconciliation should be completed during the admission process and not deferred until the client returns home. The primary purpose is to ensure that the medications prescribed during the hospital stay align with the client’s current medication regimen.
Option C involves including any adverse effects of medications. Although monitoring and managing adverse effects are essential parts of medication management, they are not the focus of medication reconciliation. The primary goal of reconciliation is to ensure that the medication list is accurate and complete, not to predict or manage side effects.
Option D suggests excluding nutritional supplements from the list of medications. This is incorrect because nutritional supplements can interact with prescribed medications and affect overall treatment efficacy. They should be included in the medication reconciliation process to provide a complete and accurate picture of the client’s medication regimen.
In summary, comparing new prescriptions with the list of medications the client reports ensures a thorough and accurate medication reconciliation process, preventing potential medication errors and improving patient safety.