Before dispensing or delivering a new prescription, what must a pharmacist do?

Conducting a prospective drug review is a critical step a pharmacist must take before dispensing or delivering a new prescription. This process involves evaluating the prescription for potential drug interactions, contraindications, allergies, and the appropriateness of the medication for the patient's specific condition. The goal is to ensure patient safety and confirm that the medication will be effective for the intended use.

This review is mandated by both ethical responsibilities and legal requirements governing pharmacy practice. By analyzing the patient's medication profile and the new prescription, pharmacists can make informed decisions that protect patients from harmful medication errors or adverse drug events.

In addition, while checking insurance validity, calling the prescriber, and documenting the patient's medical history are important tasks within a pharmacist's role, they do not directly relate to the core responsibility of evaluating the appropriateness of the therapy before dispensing. The focus of the prospective drug review is on optimizing patient outcomes and ensuring safe dispensing practices, which underscores its significance in the pharmacy workflow.