Pharmacy Service

Section 518 Section 518.2070  Pharmacy Service a)         The freestanding emergency center shall provide a pharmacy or drug and medicine service (service) for the care and treatment of patients. b)         A pharmacy or drug and medicine service policy and procedure manual shall identify the service and manner of operation. c)         The service shall be under the direction of a pharmacist employed by the FEC on a full-time, part-time or consulting basis. Responsibilities of the pharmacist shall be identified in the policy and procedure manual or other document. d)         A pharmacist shall staff the pharmacy during all hours when the pharmacy is open.  At all other times, the pharmacy shall be locked.  A pharmacist or pharmaceutical service shall be on call when the pharmacy is not open. e)         When a pharmacist is absent from the FEC, a registered professional nurse may have access to the pharmacy.  The nurse, after contacting the on call pharmacist, may obtain a single dose, manufacturer's original package, or container of a drug or medication prepackaged under the supervision of a pharmacist necessary to administer to a patient in carrying out treatment and medication orders of a prescriber.  A signed receipt for the drugs and medicines removed shall be left for the pharmacist. f)         Vending machines for the storage and supply of drugs used in the facility shall be stocked only under the supervision of a pharmacist.  They shall be securely locked, and shall provide a record of what was supplied and to whom. The drugs contained in the vending machines may be released only by a registered professional nurse, licensed practical nurse if the FEC's policy allows, physician or pharmacist. g)         All drugs and medicines shall be stored and dispensed in accordance with applicable State laws and rules and federal laws. h)         Pharmacy Personnel 1)         A pharmacist shall be available or on call at all times. 2)         The number of registered pharmacists and other supportive personnel provided shall be consistent with the size and activity of the service. 3)         Pharmacy apprentices, if employed, shall be under the direct and personal supervision of a pharmacist. i)          A pharmacy shall be in an identified area or room that complies with the requirements of the Pharmacy Practice Act. j)          Drugs and medicines shall be plainly labeled with the name of the manufacturer, lot and control number, and stored in specifically identified and well-illuminated medicine cabinets, closets, refrigerators, or other locations provided with lighting, ventilation and temperature control and fully protected from access by unauthorized persons.