What happens to the medication regimens of older adults during and after an acute hospitalization?
This cohort study of elderly patients discharged from the medical service at a teaching hospital found that, on average, patients had two new medications started at discharge, and among their chronic medications had one discontinued and one dosage changed. However, 3 days after discharge, patients had reverted to taking their chronic medications as previously prescribed and had discontinued taking a significant proportion of new medications. This study highlights the practical challenges inherent in the medication reconciliation process.