Question

which of the following actions should a pharmacy technician take to protect patient information?

• page patients using their first and last names when prescriptions are ready.
• address patients using only their first names.
• maintain a sign - in sheet at the counter for patients who are picking up prescriptions.
• place empty patient vials behind the counter.

Explanation:

To protect patient information (confidentiality), using only first names (option 2) or a sign - in sheet (option 3) or placing vials (option 4) don't fully protect. Paging with first and last names is more specific but still, among these, placing empty patient vials behind the counter (option 4) keeps vials (with possible info) out of public view. Wait, no—wait, the correct action for protecting patient info: Addressing with only first names (option 2) is less revealing? No, wait, let's re - evaluate. Wait, the question is about protecting patient information. Let's analyze each:

1. Page patients using first and last names: This reveals both, not good.

1. Address patients using only their first names: Reduces exposure, but is it the best? Wait, no—wait, the option "place empty patient vials behind the counter" (option 4) – vials might have labels with info, so putting them behind counter keeps them private. But wait, maybe the correct answer is "place empty patient vials behind the counter" as it physically protects vials with patient info. Wait, no, let's check again. Wait, the options:

• Page patients using first and last names: Discloses both names, not protective.

• Address patients using only their first names: Better, but still, maybe the best is placing vials behind counter. Wait, no, maybe I made a mistake. Wait, the key is protecting patient information. Let's think about HIPAA - like principles. Protecting the physical items (vials) with patient info by placing them behind the counter (so not visible to others) is a good action. So the correct option is "place empty patient vials behind the counter."

Answer:

The option "place empty patient vials behind the counter" (the fourth option in the list)