What is the term for the process of compiling a single, accurate list of a patient's medications across transitions of care?

• A. Medication administration
• B. Medication reconciliation
• C. Medication adherence
• D. Medication distribution

Answer: (B)

Compiling a single, accurate list of a patient’s medications across transitions of care is medication reconciliation. This is a structured process that gathers the complete medication list from all sources, including the patient, family, and outside providers, and then compares it with the current orders at each transition (admission, transfer, discharge). The goal is to identify and resolve any discrepancies—such as omissions, duplications, or dosing errors—so the updated, correct list is communicated to the next care team and the patient. This continuity helps prevent adverse drug events and ensures safe, coordinated care.

Medication administration is simply the act of giving the medications to the patient. Medication adherence refers to how closely a patient follows the prescribed regimen. Medication distribution covers the supply and delivery of medications to the point of care. None of these, by themselves, guarantee a reconciled, cross-transition medication list.