When Less Is More: A Nurse's Guide to Safe Deprescribing

Many patients accumulate prescriptions over years without a clear plan for stopping them. In this episode Nurse Jessi explains deprescribing: what it means, why stopping medicines can be safe and beneficial when handled properly, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Drawing on frontline family-medicine experience, she walks through how clinicians assess medication necessity, prioritization (which classes to consider first), building a monitoring and taper plan, and scripting the conversation so patients and caregivers can advocate effectively. Jessica covers practical examples—sleep aids, long-term acid blockers, some diabetes and blood pressure medicines—signs that indicate safe trial discontinuation, and red flags requiring urgent review. Listeners will leave with a patient-tested checklist, exact phrases to use during visits, and a clear follow-up plan. The monologue is focused on empowering patients to reduce medication burden, minimize side effects, and partner with clinicians for safer care.