What should a technician do if a prescription appears to be altered?

When a prescription appears to be altered, notifying the pharmacist for verification and investigation is the most appropriate course of action. This allows the pharmacist, who has the professional training and authority, to assess the situation thoroughly. They can check for inconsistencies, verify the authenticity of the prescription with the prescribing physician, and determine if the medication is necessary for the patient.

This approach ensures patient safety, as altered prescriptions can pose significant risks, such as the potential for misuse or dispensing incorrect medications. Involving a pharmacist helps maintain compliance with legal and ethical standards, as they have the responsibility to ensure that all medications dispensed meet required guidelines.

Taking direct action like filling the prescription or disregarding it could lead to serious consequences, including legal repercussions for the pharmacy and potential harm to the patient. Contacting the patient for clarification could be an option but is generally recommended only after the pharmacist has been notified, as it may present challenges in verifying the prescription's validity.