What must a pharmacy technician always be under while working?

The correct answer is that a pharmacy technician must always be under the direct supervision of a pharmacist while working. This means that the pharmacist must be physically present in the pharmacy and available to oversee the activities of the technician. Direct supervision ensures that the pharmacist can provide immediate guidance and support, which is crucial for maintaining patient safety and ensuring that all pharmacy practices comply with the laws and regulations governing pharmacy operations.

Under direct supervision, pharmacy technicians can perform their duties effectively while the pharmacist retains ultimate responsibility for the accuracy and safety of the medications being dispensed. This arrangement promotes a collaborative environment where the technician can gain valuable experience and training under the pharmacist's oversight, crucial for their professional development.

In contrast, general supervision, which implies that a pharmacist is available but not necessarily present, does not meet the legal requirements for pharmacy technicians. Written directives are also not a sufficient substitute for supervision; instead, they might serve as an additional management tool within a supervisory context. No supervision at all would be contrary to pharmacy practice standards and could jeopardize patient care.