Why is proper documentation of medication errors and near misses important in pharmacy operations?
Documenting errors and near misses allows the pharmacy team to analyze root causes, improve systems, and prevent similar incidents in the future, enhancing overall patient safety.
In pharmacy operations, what is the main role of the technician during third-party billing?
The technician gathers patient and insurance information, submits electronic claims, and resolves basic rejections while referring complex coverage issues to the pharmacist.
What is one key reason pharmacies use automated dispensing technologies such as counting machines?
Automated counting and dispensing devices can improve efficiency and reduce human counting errors, but technicians must still verify the drug, strength, and quantity selected.
Which document is typically required to account for the destruction of expired controlled substances?
When controlled substances are destroyed, pharmacies must complete specific DEA or state forms documenting the drug, quantity, method of destruction, and witnesses to maintain regulatory compliance.
What is the primary purpose of using the NDC number in pharmacy operations?
The National Drug Code (NDC) uniquely identifies the drug’s labeler, product, and package size, helping technicians select the correct medication and prevent product selection errors.
Why is it important to maintain accurate perpetual inventory for controlled substances?
Perpetual inventory for controlled substances provides a constant record of quantities received, dispensed, and on hand, helping detect discrepancies early and comply with regulatory requirements.
Which inventory method is most commonly used in pharmacies to ensure medications are rotated properly?
The First In, First Out (FIFO) method ensures that older stock is used before newer stock, reducing the chance of medications expiring on the shelf.
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ArrayWhat is the best action for a technician who notices a discrepancy between the filled prescription and the original order?
When a discrepancy is found, the technician should immediately stop the filling process and bring the issue to the pharmacist’s attention to ensure the correct medication reaches the patient.
Which step in the community pharmacy workflow typically comes immediately after prescription data entry?
After the prescription is entered into the computer system, the next step is usually filling, where a technician selects, counts, and packages the medication according to the entered directions.