In the case of an administration error, what is the first step that pharmacy technicians should take according to nonmaleficence?

The first step that pharmacy technicians should take in the event of an administration error, guided by the principle of nonmaleficence, is to admit the mistake and inform the healthcare team. Nonmaleficence is a key ethical principle in healthcare that emphasizes the importance of not causing harm to patients. By quickly acknowledging the error and communicating it to the healthcare team, the technician allows for prompt action to be taken to mitigate any potential harm to the patient and ensures that appropriate corrective measures can be implemented.

In addition, informing the healthcare team fosters transparency and promotes collaborative problem-solving, which is essential in healthcare settings. This immediate acknowledgment can help prevent further complications or adverse effects related to the error.

The approach of notifying only the patient or hiding the error from management is contrary to the principles of ethical practice, potentially leading to increased risk for the patient and undermining trust within the healthcare team. Delaying action until further investigation can also be harmful, as it could prolong the risk posed to the patient and prevent timely intervention. Overall, taking responsibility and keeping the healthcare team informed aligns with ethical standards and prioritizes patient safety.