What action should be taken if a pharmacist discovers an error in a patient’s medication?

When a pharmacist discovers an error in a patient’s medication, it is essential to notify the appropriate healthcare provider. This action is critical because it ensures that the healthcare provider can assess the situation, discuss any necessary changes to the patient's treatment plan, and provide appropriate guidance based on the patient's needs. Effective communication among healthcare professionals is vital for patient safety, as it allows for immediate intervention if the patient is at risk of harm from the medication error.

While informing the patient, making corrections, and documenting the error are important actions in their own right, notifying the healthcare provider takes precedence in this situation. The healthcare provider is in the best position to address the error in the context of the patient's overall care and to make informed decisions about subsequent treatment steps. This collaborative approach is fundamental to ensuring patient safety and maintaining the integrity of the healthcare system.