Who can access the pharmacy during its closure in a hospital?

Access to the pharmacy during its closure in a hospital is restricted primarily to ensure the security of medications and to maintain patient safety. In many healthcare facilities, protocols dictate that only specific authorized personnel are allowed access when the pharmacy is closed. A supervisory nurse typically has the appropriate training and authorization to handle medication in urgent situations, allowing them to ensure that patients continue to receive necessary care when the pharmacy is not staffed. This procedure is designed to limit access to those who are trained and can appropriately handle drugs, reducing the risk of medication errors or misuse.

Others, such as on-call pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, may not have access unless specifically designated by hospital protocol. The focus on having a supervisory nurse as the accessible personnel reflects a balance between patient needs and the safeguarding of controlled substances and other medications.