Get the Basics on Preventing Adverse Events after Hospital Discharge from AHRQ’s PSNet

Adverse drug events are the most frequent complication that patients experience after they are discharged from the hospital, according to a patient safety primer available on AHRQ’s Patient Safety Network (PSNet). The primer provides background and relevant, research-based information to help hospital staff reduce the incidence of adverse events that cause readmissions. It suggests that hospital staff follow a systematic approach, including implementing an effective medication reconciliation program; communicating information about the patient’s medication changes, pending tests, and follow-up needs with outpatient physicians; and educating patients and families about their diagnosis and follow-up needs. Select to access the full patient safety primer, titled Adverse Events after Hospital Discharge.