A pharmacy technician notices that the directions on a controlled-substance prescription are ambiguous while entering them. Which action best addresses the uncertainty?
ABring the questionable directions to the pharmacist before completing the entry✓ Correct
The pharmacist can obtain clarification from the prescriber.
BSelect the directions used on the client’s last prescription✗ Incorrect
Prior directions do not establish the current order.
CEnter the technician’s most likely interpretation✗ Incorrect
An interpretation does not verify the prescriber’s intent.
DLeave the disputed directions to be decided by the client✗ Incorrect
The prescriber is the source for clarification of the order.
Answer
A. Bring the questionable directions to the pharmacist before completing the entry
Rationale
The DEA directs pharmacists to seek verification from the prescriber when an order raises a question. Referring the ambiguity keeps the technician from independently resolving it.
RememberHave the pharmacist clarify uncertain directions.
Sources
United States Department of JusticeU.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Diversion Control Division · License: US government work (public domain) · Retrieved · Page 112
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