If a patient reports an allergic reaction to a medication, what should be done?

When a patient reports an allergic reaction to a medication, it is essential to document the reaction and inform the pharmacist. This process ensures that the patient's safety is prioritized. Documenting the reaction creates a medical record that can prevent future administration of the problematic medication and can also inform other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care. Additionally, notifying the pharmacist allows for a professional review of the patient's medication profile to assess potential alternative therapies that are safe for the patient.

Ignoring the reaction or asking the patient to take the medication anyway disregards their health and could lead to severe consequences. While switching the medication is an important step, it should only be done after careful assessment and consultation with the pharmacist, rather than immediately without understanding the patient's full situation.