What must a pharmacy technician do if they suspect a prescription is fraudulent?

• A. Fill the prescription only if the patient insists
• B. Ignore the suspicion and proceed with filling
• C. Alert a pharmacist or supervisor immediately
• D. Contact the patient for confirmation

Answer: (C)

When a pharmacy technician suspects that a prescription is fraudulent, the appropriate action is to alert a pharmacist or supervisor immediately. This step is crucial as it ensures that a qualified healthcare professional can review the situation and determine the proper course of action. Pharmacists have the training and authority required to verify prescriptions and assess the potential for fraud. By reporting the suspicion, the technician not only helps protect the pharmacy from legal risks but also safeguards patient safety.

Involving a pharmacist or supervisor is vital because they can conduct further investigation, which could involve contacting the prescribing physician or relevant authorities if necessary. This collaborative approach helps maintain the integrity of the pharmacy's operation and contributes to public safety.

The other options do not promote the best practices for handling suspected fraud. Filling a prescription against one's better judgment, ignoring the suspicion, or contacting the patient directly could lead to serious consequences for both the pharmacy and the patient, such as legal issues or the potential for misuse of controlled substances.