Who is responsible for overseeing medication carts and floorstock medications in a healthcare setting?

The responsibility for overseeing medication carts and floorstock medications in a healthcare setting primarily falls to the Pharmacist in Charge (PIC). The PIC is tasked with ensuring that all medication practices comply with state and federal regulations, maintaining proper storage and accessibility of medications, and overseeing the overall management of the pharmacy's operations. This includes monitoring the medication cart systems and ensuring that floorstock medications are adequately stocked, secured, and administered appropriately by nursing staff.

The PIC collaborates closely with nursing staff and other healthcare providers to maintain safe medication practices, including conducting regular audits and addressing any discrepancies or issues that may arise. This role is crucial in promoting patient safety and ensuring that medication management protocols are followed correctly.

While nursing staff, including the Director of Nursing and Nursing Supervisor, play significant roles in the administration of medications and may oversee their teams, the ultimate responsibility for the pharmacy and the regulations surrounding medications rests with the PIC. The Pharmacy Technician assists the pharmacy but does not have direct oversight responsibilities for the medication carts or floorstock in the same capacity as a pharmacist.