Under what conditions must pharmacy technicians operate according to North Carolina law?

Pharmacy technicians in North Carolina are required to operate under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This supervision ensures that the pharmacists, who have the necessary education, training, and legal authority, are responsible for ensuring safe and effective medication delivery to patients. The role of the technician is supportive and involves tasks such as preparing medications, performing inventory duties, and assisting in other pharmacy operations, but these activities must always be overseen by a licensed professional. This structure is essential for maintaining patient safety, compliance with pharmacy law, and upholding the standards of practice within the pharmacy setting.

The requirement for supervision reinforces the collaborative nature of pharmacy practice, where the expertise of pharmacists is utilized to direct and oversee the work of technicians, thus enhancing the overall quality of care provided to patients.