Final answer:
To avoid medication errors at the prescription drop-off window, you should verify the patient's identity, ask for insurance information, and provide counseling.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Mrs. Lockhart comes into the pharmacy with a new prescription, there are several steps you should take at the prescription drop-off window to avoid medication errors:
- Verify patient identity: Ensure that the person presenting the prescription is indeed Mrs. Lockhart. You can ask for identification or use other authentication methods to confirm their identity.
- Ask for insurance information: Collect the patient's insurance details to ensure proper billing and coverage for the prescription.
- Provide counseling: Take the time to communicate with Mrs. Lockhart about the medication, including its purpose, dosage instructions, potential side effects, and any other relevant information.
By following these steps, you can enhance patient safety and reduce the risk of medication errors.