If a patient reports a lost prescription, what is the first step a pharmacy technician should take?

When a patient reports a lost prescription, the first step a pharmacy technician should take is to investigate for a "Lost Prescription Override." This process is crucial because it involves verifying whether the prescription in question has been flagged as lost within the pharmacy's system. If such an override exists, it can allow the pharmacy to refill the prescription more securely and effectively, ensuring compliance with regulations and preventing potential abuse.

Investigating the "Lost Prescription Override" helps the technician understand the situation better and determine the appropriate actions that need to be taken regarding the prescription. It establishes whether there are protocols in place at the pharmacy to address lost prescriptions, ensuring that proper procedures are followed to protect both the pharmacy and the patient.

Taking this investigative approach is a proactive measure that prioritizes patient safety and legal adherence in medication dispensing.