Regulations And Regulatory Bodies Practice Test

A pharmacist receives an electronic prescription for hydrocodone/acetaminophen (a Schedule II controlled substance) with a note from the prescriber: “Please dispense early; patient traveling.” The pharmacist also notices the patient has filled similar prescriptions at multiple pharmacies in the last month based on the state prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP). Under the pharmacist’s corresponding responsibility and DEA expectations for preventing diversion, how should the pharmacist handle this regulatory compliance concern?

In a high-volume community pharmacy, the pharmacist is counseling a patient on a new antidepressant at the pick-up counter while other patients are within earshot. A technician suggests speaking louder to move the line faster. Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule, which action best ensures compliance while still providing appropriate counseling?