In medication reconciliation, what does a physician compare?

In medication reconciliation, the main focus is on ensuring patient safety by accurately comparing the patient's old medications to the new medications ordered. This process is vital when a patient is admitted to a healthcare facility, transferred between locations, or discharged. It involves reviewing the medications the patient has been taking prior to any new orders to identify any discrepancies that could lead to medication errors.

This comparison helps to prevent potential adverse drug interactions and ensures that the patient's medication regimen is both safe and effective. By identifying differences in medication therapy, physicians can make informed decisions that protect the patient's health and reduce the risk of harm caused by incorrect medications.

The other options, while relevant to patient care, do not encapsulate the core purpose of medication reconciliation as effectively. The focus is specifically on reconciling the current prescribed medications against the patient's previous medication history.