Which of the following functions requires positive identification of the responsible pharmacist?

The requirement for positive identification of the responsible pharmacist pertains to all the functions listed. In the context of pharmacy practice, ensuring accountability and proper management of various functions is crucial for patient safety and the integrity of pharmacy operations.

When it comes to prospective drug utilization review (DUR), a pharmacist must be identifiable to ensure that the review process, which assesses medication appropriateness before dispensing, is conducted by a qualified individual. This helps in identifying potential drug interactions, contraindications, and other medication-related problems.

Patient counseling is another critical function that necessitates the pharmacist's identity. The responsible pharmacist must provide counseling on medication use, side effects, and any other pertinent patient information. This requires a clear assignment of responsibility to ensure that patients receive accurate and reliable guidance.

In situations where a prescription is taken from an answering machine left by a physician, it is imperative to have a designated pharmacist oversee the interpretation and selection of medications. This also protects against errors that could potentially arise from vague or incomplete prescriptions, as well as ensuring compliance with legal and procedural standards.

Thus, all the functions mentioned require that the responsible pharmacist is positively identified, which underscores the significance of accountability in pharmacy practice.