What is the first step a pharmacist should take in response to a drug recall?

In response to a drug recall, the primary responsibility of a pharmacist is to ensure patient safety and the safe handling of potentially hazardous medications. Checking the inventory immediately is crucial because it allows the pharmacist to identify any affected products within their pharmacy. By assessing their stock of the recalled medication, the pharmacist can take the necessary steps to remove those items from shelves promptly and prevent them from being dispensed, thereby mitigating any potential harm to patients.

This initial action establishes the foundation for subsequent steps in the recall process, such as notifying patients or health professionals who may have received the affected medication, processing returns, or reporting any adverse effects linked to the drug. It's important for pharmacists to have a clear understanding of the specific products involved in the recall, which directly informs all further actions related to patient safety and compliance with the recall protocol.