Exploring the Role of Pharmacy Technicians in Prescription Verification and Error Detection: A Qualitative Study in Hafr AL-Batin Hospitals Settings

Abstract

Objective: This qualitative study explored the role of pharmacy technicians in prescription verification and error detection in hospital pharmacies in Hafr AL-Batin, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 pharmacy technicians working in various Hafr AL-Batin hospitals. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Four main themes emerged: 1) Importance of pharmacy technicians in prescription verification; 2) Error detection strategies; 3) Barriers to effective verification; and 4) Suggestions for improvement. Technicians played a vital role in preventing errors from reaching patients. They utilized various strategies to detect errors, including double-checking, following protocols, and collaborating with pharmacists. However, high workload, time pressures, distractions, and limited training were perceived barriers. Participants suggested enhancing training, leveraging technology, and fostering a supportive work environment to optimize error detection.
Conclusion: Pharmacy technicians are essential in verifying prescriptions and detecting errors in Hafr AL-Batin hospitals. Implementing participants' recommendations could improve technicians' capacity to ensure medication safety. Further research should quantitatively examine the effectiveness of technicians' error detection and evaluate the impact of targeted interventions.