Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam

TK is a 54 year old male who is a new patient at the pharmacy. He presents today with a new prescription for 20 diazepam 10 mg, i po qid and taper as directed over 5-7 days. In discussion with the pharmacist, TK admits that he has abused alcohol for the last 3 years, but that he stopped drinking yesterday when he went to an alcohol treatment centre. He discloses that he has not been looking after himself or eating well in recent months. His current symptoms include agitation, insomnia and tremulousness. His medical history is otherwise insignificant. During the consultation, TK notices that his neighbour’s daughter, Cheryl, is employed as a front-shop cashier in the pharmacy. He feels uncomfortable about providing further information about his medical condition. What is the most appropriate initial action to be taken by the pharmacist?

1. Advise TK that disclosure of information is necessary to address his medical needs.

2. Suggest that TK can go to another pharmacy if he wishes to avoid this concern.

3. Offer a private counselling area and advise TK that no information will be disclosed to Cheryl.

4. Advise TK that alcohol abuse is a medical problem and he should not feel uncomfortable about it.

The correct answer is: Offer a private counselling area and advise TK that no information will be disclosed to Cheryl.

Offer a private counselling area and advise TK that no information will be disclosed to Cheryl. The other options are incorrect for various reasons. Option A assumes that TK will be forthcoming with information if the pharmacist simply requests it, but this may not be the case. Option B may suggest to TK that he is being judged or rejected by the pharmacist, which may deter him from seeking further treatment. Option D may not address TK's concerns about privacy and may leave him feeling uncomfortable. Option C is the most appropriate initial action as it addresses TK's need for privacy and allows him to feel comfortable disclosing important medical information without fear of judgement or breach of confidentiality.