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Which of the following statements is true regarding counseling documentation?
It is optional for all medications
It must be documented whenever counseling occurs
It can be verbal only, without written documentation
It is only required for prescriptions over $100
The correct answer is: It must be documented whenever counseling occurs
The statement that counseling documentation must be documented whenever counseling occurs is aligned with best practices in pharmacy law and standards. Proper documentation serves several important purposes. It protects the pharmacy and the pharmacist by providing a record of the counseling provided to the patient, which can be important in cases where patient understanding and compliance may be evaluated. Additionally, documentation can serve as evidence of the pharmacist's efforts to promote patient safety and optimal medication use. In many states, including Ohio, pharmacy laws explicitly require pharmacists to provide counseling when medication is dispensed and to document this interaction. This helps ensure accountability and assures that patients receive the necessary information to use their medications safely and effectively. While verbal counseling is crucial, written documentation plays a significant role in maintaining a comprehensive patient record. It also helps other healthcare providers who may need to review past patient interactions. The other options do not align with this requirement. For example, stating that documentation is optional or only required over a certain price threshold misrepresents the general standards of practice and regulations that prioritize patient safety and care continuity.