PHARMACISTS are being urged by indemnity insurer, Pharmaceutical Defence Limited (PDL), to follow established dispensing protocols in order to avoid errors.
The warning follows a report of an alleged error by a pharmacist working at a discount chemist, in which the mother of a seven-month-old boy claimed the pharmacist provided directions that would have seen the child receive doses eight-times the recommended amount.
Speaking to Pharmacy Daily, PDL Professional Officer, Gary West, said the organisation would not comment on specific allegations, but stressed the need for pharmacists to follow the insurer's Guide to Good Dispensing.
"We remind pharmacists of the need to be mindful of risks," he said.
"Distractions can be a factor, interruptions are certainly a factor...pharmacists need to have a good system... there are a lot of steps in the dispensing process."
West said PDL had not seen a significant increase in claims relating to errors, that have been flagged by regulators, but noted that people were more likely to lodge complaints than in the past.
"The ability to make a complaint is easier to report," he said.
"[So there] probably has been an increase in formal notifications."
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