Final answer:
The time a hospital pharmacy can remain without a pharmacist varies by local regulations, but for a small hospital (<50 beds) with board approval, there may be specific time frames allowed. Consultation with the relevant health department or pharmacy board is necessary to find the exact duration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The duration that a hospital pharmacy can operate without a pharmacist on staff varies based on local laws, regulations, and hospital policies. However, for a hospital with fewer than 50 beds and with written board approval, there may be specific provisions that allow the pharmacy to operate without a pharmacist for a certain period. To determine the exact allowed time frame, one would need to consult the relevant health department or pharmacy board regulations in the specific jurisdiction where the hospital is located. These regulations are typically in place to ensure patient safety while accommodating the staffing challenges that small hospitals may face.