Medication reconciliation in ambulatory surgery to prevent adverse drug events

Abstract

Adverse drug events (ADEs) cause a significant burden to the healthcare system. Medication reconciliation (MR) is a well-documented method to reduce ADEs in a variety of healthcare settings. The purpose of this project was to determine best practice for performing MRs, implement best practice into practice, and evaluate outcomes based on successful completion of MRs. This project was implemented at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) in southwestern Montana with a focus on adult orthopedic patients. Four PDSA cycles were completed over a 6-week period to improve the MR process. Improvement of the MR process was deemed necessary to meet evidence-based MR guidelines for patient safety and to meet accreditation standards. The definition of a complete MR was based on current literature and state and national accreditation guidelines. Over the 6-week process, MR completion rates increased from 0% at implementation to 52% at project completion. Continuation of improvement utilizing the processes implemented in this project is recommended.