What key information should be included in a medication reconciliation?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of compiling an accurate list of all medications the patient is currently taking. Medication reconciliation is a critical process that ensures safety and reduces the risk of medication errors during transitions of care, such as when a patient is admitted to a hospital, transferred to another facility, or discharged.

Having a complete and accurate list of all current medications—including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and any other substances the patient is taking—allows healthcare providers to assess potential drug interactions, duplications, or inaccuracies in treatment plans. This comprehensive understanding helps to ensure that appropriate medications are continued, adjusted, or discontinued as needed, leading to better patient outcomes.

While a list of medications used in the past year may provide some context, it does not capture the current situation as effectively. Focusing only on prescriptions from the last hospital visit misses out on critical outpatient medications that are relevant to the patient's overall therapeutic regimen. Likewise, simply noting dosages without frequency does not provide a complete picture for safe medication use and management. Thus, compiling a thorough list of current medications is an essential component of the medication reconciliation process.