Final answer:
Pharmacists must prescribe based on clinical judgment and competence, informed by their extensive knowledge in chemistry and biology, and guided by ethical principles ensuring the best interest of the patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
A pharmacist with additional prescribing authorization must make decisions based on clinical judgment and competence, not on patient's preference, personal biases, or hospital policies alone. Pharmacists undergo extensive education, including a doctorate in pharmacy, and must understand a vast amount of chemistry and biology to comprehend the effects that drugs have on the body. Their role is to ensure safe and effective use of medication, which includes advising physicians on drug selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects, as well as educating patients on the proper use of their medications. Pharmacists' decisions should be guided by clinical evidence and professional experience, while also considering the principle of autonomy and principle of beneficence to act in the best interest of the patient. This ethical and professional approach underpins the pharmacist's responsibility in providing healthcare services.