Dermatology 2026

Background: Accurate medicines reconciliation on admission is essential for patient safety, however, topical therapies are frequently overlooked despite their importance in managing chronic conditions. This audit aimed to evaluate and improve the reconciliation of such when admitted to Hospital, ensuring that chronic conditions managed this way remain free of flare-ups.

Methods: A prospective audit reviewed patients admitted to three wards between 12/01/26 and 14/02/26 (to minimize speciality bias). SystemOne was used to identify regular topical medications, which were cross-checked against admission documentation and inpatient drug charts. For reconciled medications, prescribing details and administration were assessed. For omissions, documentation of reasons was assessed.

Results: Fifty patients (aged 37–94) were included, all using at least one topical medication at home. A total of 68 medications were identified, most commonly emollients, ibuprofen gel, barrier creams, and topical corticosteroids. Indications included eczema, osteoarthritis, and pressure sores. On admission, 78% had medications documented, but only 54% were formally reconciled. Among these, 93% had complete details and 81% were administered. Of those not reconciled, 35% had a documented reason. Additionally, 22% had no topical medications recorded and received no treatment.

Conclusions: Reconciliation was accurate when performed, but overall rates were suboptimal, indicating a gap in medicines optimization and potential patient safety risk. Interventions including educational posters and clerking sticker prompts have been introduced to improve recognition and prescribing of topical therapies on admission.

Dr. Victor Schumacker is a UK-based dermatologist and clinician associated with King's Mill Hospital, Nottinghamshire, UK. He has extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of skin disorders and is involved in delivering specialist dermatology services within the NHS. Dr. Schumacker is committed to providing high-quality patient care and contributes to the advancement of dermatological practice through his clinical expertise and multidisciplinary approach.