If a pharmacist leaves the prescription department to assist a patient with OTC product selection, must they lock the pharmacy?

In Ohio, the regulations stipulate that a pharmacy must maintain appropriate security measures to protect prescription drugs and controlled substances. However, when a pharmacist leaves the prescription department to assist a patient with OTC (over-the-counter) product selection, locking the pharmacy is not a requirement.

This is because the area where prescription medications are stored does not need to be secured at all times, as long as there is a clear line of sight and supervision of the area. Additionally, since OTC products are not under the same stringent regulations as prescription drugs, the necessity of locking the pharmacy during brief absences for assisting customers with non-prescription products is not mandated. It ensures that the pharmacist can provide customer service without compromising safety or security protocols surrounding prescription medications.