The Role of Nurses in Promoting Effective Medication Management and Reducing Errors

Abstract

Medication management is a critical aspect of transitional care for older adults, as medication discrepancies and errors can lead to adverse outcomes, prolonged hospitalizations, and increased healthcare costs. Nurses play a pivotal role in preventing drug-related problems (DRPs) during transitional periods by collecting and evaluating medication information, providing patient education, enhancing adherence, and coordinating care among healthcare professionals. This narrative review summarizes the contributing factors to post-discharge DRPs, including age, specific drugs, polypharmacy, patient-related factors, and system-related factors. Medication reconciliation, a systematic process involving listing, comparing, and communicating medications, is essential for minimizing inconsistencies and preventing DRPs. Nurse-led transitional care interventions, such as home visits, telephone follow-ups, and educational programs, have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing medication discrepancies, improving adherence, and enhancing health outcomes. Nurses also serve as "Liaison Officers," uniquely positioned to identify high-risk patients, mediate communication among healthcare disciplines, and monitor for potential adverse drug reactions. Effective communication, trust-building, and the use of recall-promoting and teach-back techniques are crucial for reinforcing critical drug information. Technological advancements, such as electronic systems and mobile health applications, have further facilitated medication management during transitional care. However, further large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to assess the broader impact of nurse-led interventions on care quality and healthcare costs.