Examining the Role of Pharmacists in Enhancing Medication Reconciliation and Patient Education During Hospital Discharge

Authors: Nada S. Almakhlafi, Alanoud N. Alsubaie, Hamza F. Alsamanhodi, Abdullah M. Alhelwan

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13326142

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gt65zr

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Abstract
Background: Effective medication reconciliation and patient education during hospital discharge are critical for preventing medication errors and improving patient outcomes. Pharmacists play a key role in these processes, but their impact needs further exploration.
Objective: This study examines the role of pharmacists in improving medication reconciliation and patient education during hospital discharge.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used. Quantitatively, data were collected from 150 patients to assess medication discrepancies and understanding of discharge instructions before and after pharmacist-led interventions. Qualitatively, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 pharmacists to explore their experiences and perspectives.
Results: Pharmacist-led interventions significantly reduced medication discrepancies from 35 to 12 (p < 0.01) and decreased the percentage of patients with discrepancies from 23% to 8% (p < 0.01). Patient understanding of discharge instructions improved from 68% to 85% (p < 0.01). Qualitative findings revealed that pharmacists effectively addressed challenges such as incomplete medication histories and time constraints, and utilized personalized education to enhance patient understanding.
Conclusion: Pharmacists significantly improve medication reconciliation and patient education during discharge. Their involvement reduces medication discrepancies and enhances patient comprehension of discharge instructions, contributing to better patient outcomes.

Keywords: Medication Reconciliation, Patient Education, Pharmacists, Hospital Discharge, Medication Errors

Paper Id: 231015

Published On: 2016-05-04

Published In: Volume 4, Issue 3, May-June 2016

Cite This: Examining the Role of Pharmacists in Enhancing Medication Reconciliation and Patient Education During Hospital Discharge - Nada S. Almakhlafi, Alanoud N. Alsubaie, Hamza F. Alsamanhodi, Abdullah M. Alhelwan - IJIRMPS Volume 4, Issue 3, May-June 2016. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13326142

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