Inpatient access when the pharmacy is closed requires what staffing arrangement?

• A. Two pharmacists
• B. Two employees, one prescriber or nurse
• C. One pharmacist and one security guard
• D. Any two staff members

Answer: (B)

Access to inpatient medications after hours relies on a two-person rule that combines practical access control with clinical authority. Having two staff members present, and ensuring that one of them is a prescriber or nurse, provides dual supervision: one person handles the logistical task of retrieving medications and securing the area, while the other brings the clinical oversight needed to verify orders, respond to patient needs, and authorize actions if required. This arrangement reduces the risk of unauthorized access and supports safe medication handling when the on-duty pharmacist isn’t available. Choosing two pharmacists or a non-clinical pair would lack the necessary clinical oversight, and relying on any two staff members would not guarantee appropriate clinical authority.