Ambiguous and Unclear Prescriptions

Excerpt

To the editor: The letters in the December issue reporting episodes of confusion about drug names were very disturbing. The danger to patient safety in these cases is alarming but another aspect of these letters is also distressing: All of these cases were reported by physicians and their letters seemed to reflect little regard for the ability and competence of pharmacists. Although we do not claim that all pharmacists are as able or conscientious as they might be, many of us strive for excellence and occasionally feel unappreciated in our efforts to oversee the sometimes questionable prescribing practices of physicians.