If a patient confesses to using their prescription for Codeine to cope with stress, what is the appropriate way to respond?

When a patient reveals that they are using their prescription for Codeine as a means to cope with stress, it is important to handle the situation with care and professionalism. Discretely alerting the pharmacist on duty is the most appropriate response because pharmacists are trained to assess medication use and address potential misuse or dependency issues. By informing the pharmacist, you ensure that the patient receives the appropriate evaluation and support from a licensed professional who can provide guidance, assess the potential risks, and recommend alternative strategies for coping with stress.

This approach also maintains patient confidentiality and ensures that the patient receives the necessary attention in a more private setting, which is crucial for discussing sensitive issues related to mental health and medication use. Overall, alerting the pharmacist is both a responsible and supportive action that prioritizes the patient's well-being.