What process should a pharmacy technician follow upon receiving a report of an adverse drug reaction?

The process of communicating a report of an adverse drug reaction to the pharmacist promptly is vital in ensuring patient safety and effective pharmacy practice. Pharmacists are equipped to evaluate the significance of the reaction, assess its potential impact on the patient's health, and determine the appropriate next steps. By informing the pharmacist right away, the technician ensures that the situation can be addressed swiftly, which may include evaluating medication therapy, modifying prescriptions, or reporting the reaction to the appropriate regulatory authorities.

Additionally, timely communication allows for discussions about the adverse reaction to take place, which helps in preventing similar occurrences in the future and contributes to overall patient care. While documentation of the report for future reference is important, it should occur after the pharmacist has been informed, as immediate action can have critical implications for the patient's well-being.