What must a pharmacy technician do if a prescription contains an error?

When a pharmacy technician encounters a prescription with an error, it is essential to notify the pharmacist immediately for verification. This is crucial because pharmacists are the licensed professionals who have the authority to review and authorize the final dispensing of medications. They possess the expertise to determine whether the error can be resolved, what corrective action is necessary, and whether the prescription can be safely filled.

By bringing the error to the pharmacist's attention, the technician ensures patient safety and compliance with regulatory standards. This practice is a fundamental aspect of the technician's responsibilities, as it helps prevent potential medication errors that could lead to serious consequences for the patient. The pharmacist's review is critical before any dispensing occurs, thereby safeguarding both the pharmacy's legal standing and the well-being of the patient.

In contrast, dispensing a prescription as is, ignoring the error, or merely noting the error for future reference would not address the immediate need for verification and compromise patient safety.