What crucial information must a pharmacy technician verify on a handwritten prescription?

Verifying the quantity of medication on a handwritten prescription is paramount for several reasons. The quantity indicates how much of the medication the patient is to receive, directly impacting both the effectiveness of the treatment and the safety of the patient. If the quantity is incorrect, it may lead to serious health issues, such as under-treatment or potential overdose.

Additionally, a pharmacy technician needs to ensure that the quantity aligns with the prescribed dosage, the frequency of administration, and standard practice, which can prevent errors in dispensing. Ensuring accuracy at this stage can significantly reduce the risk of medication errors that could affect patient health.

While other aspects like the brand name of the medication, the patient's insurance ID number, and the patient's medical condition are also important, the quantity is a fundamental detail that must always be verified to ensure proper dispensing and patient safety.