The "Risk Management Process" is simple and its application to pharmacy is easy.

1. Identify and analyze the loss exposure. 

Step back away from the prescription filling procedure and watch the way prescriptions are dispensed in your pharmacy. Analyze each step, from receiving the prescription from the patient, to entering the information in the computer, pulling the product from the shelf, counting and pouring, attaching the label, placing the finished prescription in the bag, attaching the receipt to the bag, through counseling the patient. How was each step done? Where could an error occur? Where could the procedures be changed to prevent an error?

2. Select the technique to handle each exposure.

After analyzing each step, decide what step(s) could be added or changed to eliminate or reduce errors. Make notes on the safeguards you have determined would best protect your patient and yourself.

3. Implement the techniques.

Add the new or changed procedures to the process and instruct your staff.

4. Monitor the decisions made and implement appropriate changes.

Since no changes or additions are perfect, be prepared to make additional changes. The best safeguards will not be usable if they take too much time compared to the risk. Risk Management must be practical. Remember, however, give the new procedures a fair test, do not give up on a good risk management technique only because "It's not the way we always do it."