What action is a healthcare licentiate required to take if they believe a drug prescribed could cause harm?

When a healthcare licentiate believes that a drug prescribed could potentially cause harm, the correct action is to refuse to dispense that medication. This choice aligns with the ethical and legal responsibilities of healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety.

By refusing to dispense, the licentiate takes a proactive stance in safeguarding the patient from potential adverse effects that may arise from taking the drug in question. This decision reflects a commitment to first, do no harm, which is a critical principle in healthcare.

Moreover, refusing to dispense allows for further evaluation and discussion about the patient's condition and the appropriateness of the prescribed medication. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between pharmacists, optometrists, and physicians to ensure that patients receive the safest and most effective treatments. Such practices contribute to a higher standard of patient care and foster an environment where safety is prioritized.

While consulting the prescriber or reporting to the Board may also be appropriate steps in certain circumstances, the immediate action of refusing to dispense highlights a direct responsibility to protect the patient, which is a fundamental aspect of healthcare practice.