What should a pharmacy technician do if they suspect a medication error?

When a pharmacy technician suspects a medication error, the most appropriate and responsible action is to report it immediately to the supervising pharmacist. This is crucial because medication errors can have serious consequences for patient safety and health. By promptly bringing the issue to the attention of a qualified pharmacist, the technician ensures that the situation can be evaluated and addressed effectively.

The supervising pharmacist has the experience and authority to assess the error, determine the necessary corrective actions, and take steps to prevent future occurrences. This collaborative approach prioritizes patient safety and helps maintain the integrity of the medication dispensing process.

In this context, ignoring the issue is not an option, as it could lead to potential harm to the patient if the error goes unaddressed. Attempting to fix the error without proper guidance may result in further complications, and waiting for an audit could delay necessary interventions, putting patients at risk. Reporting the concern immediately is the best practice in ensuring patient safety and upholding professional standards within the pharmacy.