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Medication reconciliation — USMLE Step 2 CK MCQ

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HardEthics, patient safety, quality improvementMedication reconciliationUSMLE Step 2 CK

A 40-year-old Middle Eastern man comes to the urgent care clinic because of a care-planning concern. History and focused examination are notable for older patient admitted with duplicate anticoagulants after transition of care. Temperature is 98.6°F (37.0°C), blood pressure is 126/78 mmHg, pulse is 84/min, respirations are 16/min, and oxygen saturation is 98% on room air. Physical examination confirms the key finding and shows no unrelated abnormality that would better explain the presentation. The clinical team is stable enough to pause, clarify roles, and choose an ethically and procedurally appropriate response. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Reconcile medications at admission and discharge

The vignette describes Medication reconciliation, supported by older patient admitted with duplicate anticoagulants after transition of care. Reconcile medications at admission and discharge is the single best answer because it matches the diagnostic or management priority in this clinical setting. The other choices are plausible alternatives in related presentations, but they do not best fit the timing, findings, and guideline-directed approach described here.

Reference: Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goals