What should a pharmacist do when a patient presents a forged prescription?

When a pharmacist encounters a forged prescription, the most appropriate action is to report it to the appropriate authorities and document the incident. This ensures that the incident is formally recognized and investigated, which is vital for preventing potential abuse or illegal activities associated with controlled substances.

Reporting the forgery helps maintain the integrity of the pharmacy system and safeguards public health. It also allows law enforcement or regulatory agencies to take necessary actions against the individual attempting to misuse the prescription system.

Documentation of the incident is crucial for legal and professional records, providing a clear account of the pharmacist's actions and rationale. This not only serves as a protective measure for the pharmacist but also supports any potential investigation into the case.

The other actions, such as ignoring the prescription or simply contacting the physician without taking any other steps, would not sufficiently address the seriousness of receiving a forged prescription. Confiscating the prescription and notifying the patient might not involve necessary legal action or reporting, which is fundamental in these situations. Therefore, proactively reporting to the correct authorities while maintaining thorough documentation is the best course of action.