Medication Reconciliation: The Foundation of Medication Safety for Patients Requiring Dialysis.
Journal Article (Review)
Medication-related problems are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Patients requiring dialysis are at heightened risk for adverse drug reactions because of the prevalence of polypharmacy, multiple chronic conditions, and altered (but not well understood) medication pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics inherent to kidney failure. To minimize preventable medication-related problems, health care providers need to prioritize medication safety for this population. The cornerstone of medication safety is medication reconciliation. We present a case highlighting adverse outcomes when medication reconciliation is insufficient at care transitions. We review available literature on the prevalence of medication discrepancies worldwide. We also explain effective medication reconciliation and the practical considerations for implementation of effective medication reconciliation in dialysis units. In light of the addition of medication reconciliation requirements to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services End-Stage Renal Disease Quality Incentive Program, this review also provides guidance to dialysis unit leadership for improving current medication reconciliation practices. Prioritization of medication reconciliation has the potential to positively affect rates of medication-related problems, as well as medication adherence, health care costs, and quality of life.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Frament, J; Hall, RK; Manley, HJ
Published Date
- December 2020
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 76 / 6
Start / End Page
- 868 - 876
PubMed ID
- 32920154
Pubmed Central ID
- 32920154
Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)
- 1523-6838
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1053/j.ajkd.2020.07.021
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States