Verification should include a check for
- completeness―patient's full name, address, phone number, date of birth, and date written
- accuracy―drug name, consistency with products available, dosage, route of administration, dosage form, quantity, directions for use, and intravenous (IV) therapy flow rates
- authenticity―DEA registration number verification, if required, and National Plan Identifier (NPI) number
- the physician’s name, address, and phone number
- an authentic prescriber signature
- legality
- reimbursement eligibility
- dispense-as-written (DAW) or product selection codes (PSC).
See ASHP 3.7.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What are the essential parts of a prescription or medication order? Why is each part important?
- What would one look for to determine if a prescription is forged or altered?
- How would one determine if a prescription could be filled with a generic when a brand was designated?