Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician License Practice Test

Which entity typically decides on regulations for prescription drugs in hospitals?

1. Pharmaceutical companies

2. State board of pharmacy

3. Pharmacy and therapeutics committee

4. Healthcare administration

The correct answer is: Pharmacy and therapeutics committee

The pharmacy and therapeutics committee plays a crucial role in deciding on regulations for prescription drugs within hospitals because it is primarily responsible for the evaluation and selection of medications that are available for use in the institution. This committee is typically composed of healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, physicians, and sometimes nurses, who assess the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of medications. They formulate guidelines and protocols about which drugs to include in the hospital's formulary, ensuring that the prescribed medications align with current clinical practice and evidence-based guidelines. By evaluating new drugs and therapeutic options, the pharmacy and therapeutics committee helps establish treatment protocols and medication policies, thereby influencing how medications are prescribed and administered to patients in the hospital setting. This oversight ensures that patient safety is prioritized, and that prescribing practices are consistent and based on the latest available data.