What is the correct procedure to ensure selection of the right medication when preparing a prescription?

The correct procedure to ensure selection of the right medication when preparing a prescription involves using the National Drug Code (NDC) number. The NDC is a unique identifier for medications that provides essential information, including the manufacturer, product, and package size. It is a standardized way to identify and verify medications and is especially useful for distinguishing between similar-sounding drug names or formulations that may be easily confused.

While medication name, strength, and dosage form are also critical components in verifying medication, they may not provide as precise identification as the NDC number. For instance, generic names might refer to multiple products with different manufacturers, and variations in strength or dosage forms could lead to an error if the wrong product were chosen. The NDC serves as a specific code that helps ensure accuracy and safety in the dispensing process by connecting to the exact medication intended for the patient.