Final answer:
In smaller hospitals, healthcare professionals may dispense medication when a part-time pharmacist is not present, following specific protocols to ensure safety. Methods like directly observed therapy ensure proper adherence, while professional oversight is essential to prevent incidents like medication theft or mismanagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
In hospitals with fewer than 50 beds, when a part-time pharmacist is not around, there may be protocols in place that allow other healthcare professionals to dispense medications. These protocols are typically in accordance with state and federal regulations and may include the use of automated dispensing machines, the use of pre-packaged doses prepared by a pharmacist, and strict record-keeping to track medication distribution.
Maintaining appropriate medication administration and control in the absence of a full-time pharmacist is crucial for patient safety and the integrity of the healthcare facility. Hospitals might employ methods such as directly observed therapy (DOT) for certain treatments, which entail supervised administration of drugs to ensure adherence and proper dosage. This often requires healthcare staff to administer medication at designated locations or visit patients' homes, a practice commonly associated with the treatment of tuberculosis (TB).
Continuous professional oversight is imperative to avoid incidents like medication theft or improper dispensing, which can result in grave consequences for patients, as seen with the healthcare worker who was caught substituting painkiller syringes and consequently transmitted HIV to patients.