What should a Pharmacy Technician do if a patient has a question after the "Offer to Counsel" is made?

When a patient has a question after the "Offer to Counsel" has been made, directing the customer to the Consultation Area and informing the Pharmacist is the appropriate course of action. This procedure is important for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, counseling on medications is a critical part of patient safety and care. Pharmacists are the healthcare professionals trained specifically to provide comprehensive counseling on medication, including dosage, potential side effects, interactions, and overall management. By directing the patient to the dedicated area where the pharmacist can provide private and focused counsel, the technician facilitates an environment conducive to a more in-depth discussion while maintaining patient confidentiality.

Secondly, informing the pharmacist ensures that the patient’s needs are met promptly and that any complex or specific inquiries get the attention of a trained professional. Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in supporting pharmacists but should not engage in activities that are beyond their scope of practice, such as providing detailed medication counseling.

This choice aligns with the pharmacy’s standard operating procedures and regulatory guidelines, emphasizing the collaborative nature of pharmacy practice.