When should a pharmacy technician check a patient's medication for potential interactions?

A pharmacy technician should check a patient's medication for potential interactions whenever a new medication is prescribed or dispensed because this is a critical point in the patient's treatment process. At the time of initiation of a new therapy, it is essential to evaluate how that medication interacts with the patient's current medications, as well as their health conditions and overall medication regimen. This proactive approach helps in identifying any risks for adverse effects or therapeutic duplications that could lead to patient harm.

Routine checks upon initiation of new medications ensure that the pharmacy minimizes the likelihood of negative interactions that could occur if the technician waits until later (such as during refills, patient reports of issues, or scheduled audits). This vigilance supports medication safety and promotes optimal patient outcomes, as healthcare providers can make informed decisions based on complete and updated medication information.