Health Care Department Operations Manual

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Chapter 3 – Health Care Operations

Article 5 – Pharmacy and Medication Services

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3.5.27 Temporary Absence of the Pharmacist

  • Policy

    • This policy provides for the continued legal operation of the pharmacy during a temporary absence of the pharmacist as permitted by federal and state law.

  • Purpose

    • To ensure that pharmacy operations may continue during the temporary absence of a pharmacist as permitted by federal and state law.

  • Procedure

    • The Chief Executive Officer and the Pharmacist in Charge (PIC) are responsible for providing pharmacist coverage for the pharmacy during the facilities hours of operation.

    • It is permissible for the pharmacist to be temporarily absent from the licensed pharmacy for the performance of authorized duties within the institution, breaks, and meal periods.

    • During temporary absences, the pharmacist on duty and the PIC remain responsible for all work.  No work performed during a temporary absence of a pharmacist shall leave the pharmacy without being checked by a pharmacist.

    • During temporary absences, the pharmacist on duty and the PIC remain responsible for the security of the pharmacy. Any issues with pharmacy security shall be addressed by the Health Care Department Operations Manual, Section 3.5.26, Break-in, Theft/Loss From Pharmacy or Medication Storage Areas.

  • References

  • Revision History

  • Effective: 12/2013
    Reviewed: 08/2019, 06/2021, 3/14/2023, 12/10/2024