Question

which of the following patient behaviors should a pharmacy technician identify as an indication of substance use disorder?

• the patient consistently requests prescriptions refills 2 weeks early.
• the patient calls the pharmacy to ensure their prescription is ready before they arrive for pickup.
• the patient displays kindness to the pharmacy staff regularly.
• the patient occasionally fills their prescription at another pharmacy location closer to where they work.

Explanation:

Analyze the question and options

The question asks to identify a patient behavior that a pharmacy technician should recognize as an indication of substance use disorder (SUD). Let's evaluate each option:

1. The patient consistently requests prescription refills 2 weeks early.

Consistently requesting early refills (especially 2 weeks early, which is a significant portion of a standard 30-day supply) is a classic "red flag" behavior. It suggests potential misuse, overuse, or diversion of a medication, which are key indicators associated with substance use disorder.

1. The patient calls the pharmacy to ensure their prescription is ready before they arrive for pickup.

This is a common, proactive patient behavior to save time and avoid unnecessary waiting. It does not indicate substance use disorder.

1. The patient displays kindness to the pharmacy staff regularly.

This is positive social behavior and is not a clinical indicator of substance use disorder.

1. The patient occasionally fills their prescription at another pharmacy location closer to where they work.

This is a matter of convenience for the patient and is a normal, expected behavior.

Identify the correct indicator

Among the choices, requesting early refills consistently is the only behavior that serves as a clinical warning sign (red flag) for potential substance use disorder or medication misuse.

Answer:

• (A) The patient consistently requests prescriptions refills 2 weeks early. (Correct answer)
• (B) The patient calls the pharmacy to ensure their prescription is ready before they arrive for pickup.
• (C) The patient displays kindness to the pharmacy staff regularly.
• (D) The patient occasionally fills their prescription at another pharmacy location closer to where they work.