Medication Safety: We all have a role to play

Safe patient care depends on accurate information.  Patients benefit when clinicians work with patients, families, and their colleagues to collect and share current and comprehensive medication information.

Medication reconciliation is a formal process which should be done at care transitions, such as when patients enter the hospital, are transferred or go home.

Should you ask for a medication review?

–         Are you, or is someone you know, on five or more medications?

–         Have you, or someone you know, been recently discharged from the hospital?

–         Are you concerned about the side effects you’re experiencing or seeing in a loved one?

What can you do?

Patients and caregivers can ask their Doctor, Nurse or Pharmacist for a medication review.

Use the following 5 questions to guide your conversation.

1. Changes? Have any medications been added, stopped or changed, and why?
2. Continue? What medications do I need to keep taking, and why?
3. Proper Use? How do I take my medications, and for how long?
4. Monitor? How will I know if my medication is working, and what side effects do I watch for?
5. Follow-Up? Do I need any tests and when do I book my next visit?

Together, we can be sure you are getting the most up to date, accurate and safe care possible.  We all have a role to play!