4. A pharmacy technician receives a prescription for guaifenesin DM 1 tsp PO q.i.d. x 10 days. The technician prints a label that reads: Guaifenesin Take 10 mL by mouth two times a day for 10 days. What is the total number of errors this label contains?
Answer: B
Two errors are present in the label for guaifenesin DM.
The label incorrectly states the dosage frequency and the amount per dose. It should indicate taking the medication four times a day (q.i.d.) instead of two times a day, and it also misrepresents the volume of medication to be taken, stating 10 mL instead of the correct 5 mL (1 tsp).
A) 1
This option is incorrect because there are two clear errors in the label. The frequency and the dosage amount both do not match the prescription, thus making this option insufficient to describe the inaccuracies.
B) 2
This option is correct as it identifies both errors present in the label. The frequency of administration is incorrect, and the amount to be taken is also wrong. Both issues must be recognized to understand the total number of errors accurately.
C) 3
This option is incorrect because it overstates the number of errors. There are only two distinct errors in the label regarding frequency and dosage, so claiming three errors does not align with the information provided.
D) 4
This option is also incorrect as it exaggerates the number of errors. There are only two critical mistakes identified in the prescription label, making four errors an inaccurate assessment of the situation.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is two errors, as the label incorrectly specifies the administration frequency and the dosage amount. All other options fail to accurately represent the errors found in the label, either underestimating or overestimating the number of mistakes. Understanding the precise requirements of medication labeling is crucial for patient safety and adherence to the prescription.