Key terms
Pharmacist Recovery Network (PRN):
A state-based program that provides confidential assistance and rehabilitation for pharmacy professionals with substance use or mental health issues.
REMS (Risk evaluation and mitigation strategy)
A drug safety program required by the FDA for medications with high risks to ensure the benefits of the drug outweigh its risks.
Tall man lettering:
The use of mixed-case lettering (e.g., predniSONE vs. predniSOLONE) to highlight the differences in look-alike drug names.
Physical dependence
A state of adaptation to a drug that produces a physical withdrawal syndrome upon cessation or dose reduction.
Root-cause analysis:
A systematic process used to identify the underlying cause of an error to prevent it from happening again.
Technical failure:
An error caused by the failure of a machine, computer system, or pharmacy equipment.
Psychological dependence
An emotional or mental "need" for a drug, characterized by cravings and a perceived need for the drug to maintain a sense of well-being.
Rushed error
An error that occurs when a staff member works too quickly due to high volume, leading to a bypass of safety checks.
Wrong amount error:
An error in which the patient receives a different quantity of medication than what was prescribed.
REACT:
: A safety acronym often used in pharmacy emergencies (Remove, Ensure, Activate, Call, Treat/Try).
Selection error:
Selecting the wrong drug or strength from the pharmacy shelf, often due to look-alike packaging.
VAERS (Vaccine adverse event reporting system):
A national early warning system to monitor the safety of vaccines after they are licensed.
Right of refusal:
The professional right of a pharmacist to refuse to dispense a prescription based on clinical judgment or ethical concerns.
SPEAK UP:
: A patient safety campaign (by The Joint Commission) that encourages patients to be active participants in their healthcare.
VERP (Vaccine error reporting program):
A national program specifically for reporting errors related to the administration or storage of vaccines.