The core professional process.
WHAT DISPENSING REQUIRES
Verifying the prescription Checking suitability Selecting the correct product Labelling accurately Counselling the patient Recording the supply
WHY THE CHECK MATTERS
Prescriptions contain errors, and the pharmacist is the last safeguard.
WHAT TO VERIFY ON A PRESCRIPTION
Prescriber details and authority Patient details Product, strength, quantity and directions Date and validity
WHAT TO DO ABOUT ANYTHING UNCLEAR
Contact the prescriber before dispensing.
WHY
Guessing at an unclear prescription causes harm.
WHAT LABELLING MUST STATE
Patient name Product and strength Directions Quantity Date The pharmacy's details
WHY DIRECTIONS IN FULL
Abbreviations are misread by patients.
WHAT COUNSELLING SHOULD COVER
How to take it For how long What to expect What to avoid What to do about a missed dose When to seek further advice
WHY IT MATTERS COMMERCIALLY AS WELL
It is the difference between a pharmacy and a shop.
WHAT TO RECORD
Every dispensing, per the requirements.
WHAT TO RETAIN
Prescriptions, for the required period.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT ERRORS
That they are reported and recorded.
WHY
Concealed dispensing errors recur and they harm people.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT AN ERROR
Address the patient's safety first Inform the prescriber where needed Record it Establish what allowed it
