What should a pharmacy technician do if a patient requires assistance outside of their scope of practice?

When a pharmacy technician encounters a situation that requires assistance outside of their scope of practice, referring the patient to their supervisor for proper assistance is the most appropriate action. This ensures that the patient receives the necessary support from someone who is qualified and knowledgeable about the specific issue at hand.

Supervisors have more training and authority to handle complex questions or situations related to patient care, medication management, or regulatory matters, which are beyond the technician’s designated role. This course of action promotes patient safety and upholds the standards of care within the pharmacy practice.

Additionally, this approach emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication in a healthcare setting, allowing the pharmacy technician to operate within their limits while facilitating effective patient care. The other options, such as handling the situation independently or ignoring the request, could lead to potential risks for the patient or compromise the quality of care provided. Advising the patient to visit a hospital might also be inappropriate and could deny them immediate assistance that may be available within the pharmacy.