Question

Discuss the physician’s role in medication reconciliation.

Answer 1

Medication reconciliation is a major component of safe patient care in any environment. Physicians, nurses and pharmacists are usually involved with different roles at different levels. The medication reconciliation process is the shared responsibility of healthcare providers in collaboration with patients and families. The goal is to provide correct medications to the patient at all transition points within the hospital.

The physician's role is to ensure that the patient/client's medication orders on admission, transfer and discharge  are accurate and complete. The rationale for any changes to medications should be
documented in the health record and any discrepancies resolved as soon as possible.