The failure to manage workflow effectively can lead to which of the following?

The correct answer highlights a significant concern in pharmacy practice: increased medication errors can arise from ineffective workflow management. When workflows are not well-organized, it can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, and oversights in medication dispensing. This can happen due to various factors such as staff members being overwhelmed, miscommunication among team members, or inadequate processes that do not facilitate smooth operations.

Effective workflow management is crucial for ensuring that each step in the medication handling process is clearly defined and executed properly. When workflow is poor, pharmacists and technicians may rush, fail to double-check medications, or skip vital safety checks, all of which heighten the risk for errors. Adverse outcomes from medication errors can impact patient safety and overall care quality, emphasizing the importance of systematic workflow protocols.

Other factors listed, such as higher patient satisfaction, lower operational costs, and more efficient use of resources, are generally outcomes associated with effective workflow management rather than its failure. Properly managed workflows can enhance patient experiences, optimize costs, and ensure resources are utilized efficiently, while the opposite is typically true when management is lacking.