CVS Pharmacy Technician Certification Practice Test

Is it appropriate to include the medication name in a message to a patient if their prescription has no refills?

1. True

2. False

3. Only if the patient requests it

4. Only if the medication is controlled

The correct answer is: False

Including the medication name in a message to a patient whose prescription has no refills is generally not appropriate because it could lead to confusion or misunderstandings about the patient's medication regimen. When a prescription has no refills, it indicates that the provider may want to reassess the patient's needs before any additional medication is dispensed. Thus, reiterating the medication name could imply that the patient can still use the medication freely or lead them to believe they can just refill it without further consultation. Providing clear communication about prescription status is crucial for both patient safety and compliance with legal and ethical standards. For controlled substances, there are specific regulations which further complicate the situation. In cases where a prescription is not refillable, it's best to advise the patient to contact their healthcare provider for further instructions, ensuring that they understand the need for a follow-up consultation instead of simply providing the name of the medication.