Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

What is the subscription part of a prescription?

1. Directions for the physician

2. Directions for the nurse

3. Directions for the patient

4. Directions for the pharmacist

The correct answer is: Directions for the pharmacist

The subscription part of a prescription refers specifically to the instructions that the healthcare provider gives to the pharmacist regarding the medication being prescribed. This section typically includes details such as the form of the medication (like tablets or liquid), the dosage, and the quantity to be dispensed. This information is essential for the pharmacist to accurately prepare and provide the medication to the patient. The other options refer to different aspects of a prescription. Directions for the physician would generally relate to the note or message written for the healthcare provider himself, while directions for the nurse might involve how to administer the medication. Directions for the patient would typically be found in the "signa" or "sig" part, which outlines how the patient should take the medication. Thus, the subscription is critical because it communicates important dispensing information directly to the pharmacist.