How should staff respond to a drug shortage with limited stock?

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Multiple Choice

How should staff respond to a drug shortage with limited stock?

When a drug is in short supply, the focus is on keeping the patient on safe, effective therapy by acting rather than waiting. Start by identifying therapeutically equivalent alternatives that could meet the patient’s needs. Then reach out to the prescriber to discuss substitutions and obtain authorization if a change is appropriate. Finally, inform the patient about the shortage, explain the available options, and share any expected timelines for restock or alternatives. This approach maintains continuity of care, ensures safety, and respects the patient’s right to be involved in decisions about their treatment. Do not wait passively for supply to return, remove all products without a plan, or raise prices as a response to shortage.

When a drug is in short supply, the focus is on keeping the patient on safe, effective therapy by acting rather than waiting. Start by identifying therapeutically equivalent alternatives that could meet the patient’s needs. Then reach out to the prescriber to discuss substitutions and obtain authorization if a change is appropriate. Finally, inform the patient about the shortage, explain the available options, and share any expected timelines for restock or alternatives.

This approach maintains continuity of care, ensures safety, and respects the patient’s right to be involved in decisions about their treatment. Do not wait passively for supply to return, remove all products without a plan, or raise prices as a response to shortage.

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