Many people in the US, particularly the elderly, take more than one prescribed medication. CDC (2014) reported that between 2009 and 2012 nearly 48% of persons asked used at least one prescription drug, 22% used three or more prescription drugs, and nearly 11% used five or more.

In a recent study published by the Mayo Clinic, seven out of 10 Americans take at least one prescription drug. The most commonly prescribed drug is antibiotics — taken by 17 percent of Americans — followed by antidepressants and opioids — each taken by 13 percent of Americans. In addition, findings showed that:
• Even more staggering than the CDC findings, currently more than half of Americans take two prescription medications, and 20 percent of Americans are on at least five prescription medications.
• More women than men receive prescription medications.
• Antidepressant prescriptions are more common among women than men, and are most common among women ages 50 to 64.

When people take multiple medications, there is a greater risk for confusion about which medications are taken, when they are taken, and what they are being taken for. There is also a higher risk for drug interactions and increased side effects and adverse reactions.

Sometimes because of the sheer number of medications being prescribed, they may be forgotten, become too much of a bother, or a financial burden which can significantly impact client compliance and lead to poor health outcomes.

1. Answer following questions in summary format: APA format for references
   a. Why is it important to have an accurate medication reconciliation on your patients? (current medication list?
   b. How would you make sure your patient understands their medication regimen? For example, why the patient is taking the medication, the route and time.

Medications List
Metoprolol tartrate
Gabapentin Capsule
Hevothyroxine sodium tablet
Pravastatin sodium tablet
Cyanocobalamin tablet
Citalopram hydrobromide