A patient asks the pharmacy technician to use a non-child-resistant container for their prescriptions. Which of the following types of consent should be obtained?

In situations where a patient requests a non-child-resistant container for their prescriptions, it is necessary to obtain written consent from the patient. This requirement is rooted in the regulations outlined by the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA), which mandates that most prescription medications are dispensed in child-resistant containers to help prevent accidental ingestion by children.

When a patient opts for a non-child-resistant container, they need to provide explicit written consent to ensure that they understand the potential risks associated with this choice. Written consent serves as a formal acknowledgment that the patient is aware of the safety implications and accepts responsibility for opting out of the standard protective measure.

While verbal consent may indicate the patient's preference, written consent provides a documented agreement that can be referenced in the future, aligning with legal and safety protocols. This ensures compliance with regulatory standards and protects both the patient and the pharmacy.

Overall, securing written consent aligns with best practices in pharmacy, reinforcing the importance of patient safety and informed decision-making.