Medication Reconciliation Simulation

Abstract

Abstract Introduction This resource is a teaching case used with third- and fourth-year medical students to teach topics pertaining to medication reconciliation, including safe and effective medication use. Methods A standardized patient, three faculty members, and an administrative assistant are used to accomplish the goals of this case. Specifically, the standardized patient interrupts a classroom session and asks for assistance in figuring out which medications she is taking. Furthermore, the patient wishes to know if her medications are responsible for the side effects she is experiencing. The standardized patient has some prescription vials, some drug samples, an incomplete medication list, a telephone number for her pharmacy, and a telephone number for her doctors' office. Students are tasked with telephoning the pharmacy and the doctors' office and interviewing the patient, in conjunction with using the resources provided by the patient (incomplete medication list, prescription vials, and drug samples), to synthesize the patient's medication list. Results Students rated this simulation session highly (an average of 4 on a 5-point scale) in most areas assessed, and the majority of students (14 of 15; 93%) indicated that the session was worth their time. Discussion This case illustrates complexities associated with medication reconciliation as students must use resources available to solve the puzzle of the medication regimen the patient is taking. In addition, students encounter patient and system factors that impact appropriate medication utilization and safety.

Keywords

• Medication Reconciliation