What does the term "medication reconciliation" refer to?

Medication reconciliation refers to the systematic process of ensuring that a patient's medication lists are accurate and complete across different healthcare settings. This process is particularly important during transitions of care, such as when a patient is admitted to or discharged from a hospital, or when they see a new healthcare provider. The goal is to prevent medication errors, which can occur from discrepancies in medication regimens between different healthcare providers.

By actively comparing the patient's medication list from previous care settings with the new medications that are prescribed, healthcare professionals can identify any omissions, duplications, or potential interactions. This not only enhances patient safety but also supports informed decision-making by healthcare providers.

The other options do not capture the essence of what medication reconciliation involves. Combining medications into one prescription, reviewing medication stocks, or analyzing side effects focuses on different aspects of pharmacy practice that do not pertain specifically to ensuring accurate medication lists.