Prescription medication mislabelled (nothing life threatening!)- should I speak to senior pharmacist?

[PunishmentRoundupWithJoon]

Just come to use a prescription ointment for eczema, (I get a couple of bottles each month) and found that it's not the ointment, it's a shampoo. Admittedly, it looks very similar, but obviously the wording is different. It has been labelled as the ointment by the pharmacist. I didn't notice when putting on the shelf as it's the same size with the same manufacturers name across the top.

This is obviously inconvenient but not a disaster. I'll take it into Boots tomorrow and point out the error, but the thing is, it's been checked by the pharmacist and passed as being the correct item. I'm aware that although this isn't a major issue for me, it could well be if someone else's medication was mislabelled and not checked properly.

Should I ask to speak to the senior pharmacist about this?

Yes, it’s important because the system isn’t working

Yes, take it back because they will need to formally record it as an error and they need to put your medication records right.

Yes absolutely, it doesn't mean blame but they must log it as a critical incident to ensure further training, as you say not life threatening in this instance, just an inconvenience, but it could have been a different story!

Thanks, I will do that. Wasn't sure whether to just mention it to whoever was on the counter and get a replacement or ask for someone senior. I just can't help thinking what if it had been pills or other essential medication. I get three different types of inhaler too, so will be checking those closely in future!

I would suggest you email now, and follow up with a visit. Yes, make sure this is fully recorded and investigated

Theres no need to email, I used to work for Boots and can assure you that this will be taken seriously. Just go in and speak to the pharmacist .... or any of the dispensing staff as they will alert the pharmacist anyway.

Hoping I can get it replaced with the correct item, otherwise I'm down an item! Wondering if they can work out from the scribble who checked it.

They're not the most reliable pharmacy, I always check what I've been given as they've made mistakes before. Giving me a moisturiser instead of a bath additive for example. Again, same brand, but on prescription clearly said bath additive.