What must a pharmacist do if they receive a paper prescription that was originally transmitted electronically?

When a pharmacist receives a paper prescription that was originally transmitted electronically, they have specific responsibilities to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and patient safety. It is essential to verify the integrity of the prescription process and prevent potential misuse.

Marking the electronic version as void is necessary to prevent any confusion or duplication in dispensing. This step ensures that the original electronic prescription cannot be filled again, thereby reducing the risk of medication errors or potential abuse if two versions of the same prescription were to be filled at different pharmacies.

Additionally, the pharmacist should check with the other pharmacy to confirm that the electronic version has not already been dispensed. This communication safeguards against the danger of the patient obtaining the same medication from multiple sources, which could lead to overdose or adverse effects. Ensuring that only one prescription is filled helps maintain a clear and accurate medication history for the patient.

Thus, both actions—marking the electronic prescription as void and confirming with the other pharmacy—are critical practices for maintaining compliance and enhancing patient safety in this scenario.