What is the maximum duration a pharmacist may be away from the pharmacy while still ensuring compliance?

In Tennessee, a pharmacist may leave the pharmacy for a maximum of 1 hour during which the pharmacy must be under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist or be closed, assuming it does not violate any specific operational protocols. This 1-hour limit helps ensure that a pharmacist is readily available to address any immediate concerns, emergencies, or patient needs that may arise during their absence. It aligns with the overarching goal of safeguarding patient health and ensuring that the pharmacy operations remain compliant with state regulations.

Other options either exceed the acceptable duration or do not align with regulatory guidelines, which typically emphasize the importance of pharmacist availability to manage prescriptions, provide counsel, and oversee the overall operations of the pharmacy effectively.