Tell us about a time when you had to make an ethical judgment in your work. How did you handle it?

Pharmaceutical Compliance Officer Interview Questions

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a pharmacy technician, I encountered an ethical dilemma when a customer asked me to dispense a prescription that I suspected was being used for non-medical purposes. I handled this situation by following the company's policy, which required me to consult with the pharmacist on duty. Together, we reviewed the prescription and discussed our concerns. We decided to contact the prescribing doctor to obtain clarification and ensure that the medication was being used appropriately. This experience taught me the importance of upholding ethical standards in the pharmaceutical industry and the significance of teamwork in addressing such situations.

A more solid answer

During my time as a pharmacy technician at XYZ Pharmacy, I encountered an ethical dilemma that required me to make a judgment call. A customer presented a prescription for a controlled substance that raised suspicions of potential misuse. To handle this situation, I first followed the company's policy by consulting with the pharmacist on duty. Together, we carefully reviewed the prescription, taking into account the patient's medical history and any existing orders for similar medications. We also considered the potential risks and benefits of dispensing the medication in question. In order to ensure the appropriate use of the medication, we decided to reach out to the prescribing doctor for further clarification. By engaging in this collaborative process, we were able to gather additional information and make an informed decision. This experience reinforced the importance of ethical judgment and teamwork in the pharmacy setting, as well as the need to prioritize patient safety and welfare.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing specific details of the ethical judgment made by the candidate as a pharmacy technician. It mentions the suspicions of potential misuse, the collaborative process with the pharmacist, and the decision to contact the prescribing doctor for further clarification. It also emphasizes the importance of patient safety and welfare. However, it can be further improved by discussing any potential ethical considerations and providing more context on the industry regulations and guidelines.

An exceptional answer

In my role as a pharmacy technician at XYZ Pharmacy, I encountered a challenging ethical situation that required careful judgment and decision-making. A customer came in with a prescription for a high-strength opioid medication that raised concerns regarding potential misuse. The prescription was written by a doctor who had a history of overprescribing controlled substances. To handle this delicate situation, I followed the established protocol of consulting with the pharmacist on duty. We conducted a thorough review of the patient's medical records, including any previous prescriptions for similar medications. We also examined the dose and frequency of the prescribed medication, comparing it to recommended guidelines. After careful consideration, we decided to contact the prescribing doctor to gather more information and address our concerns regarding the appropriateness of the medication. During the conversation, we expressed our concerns and sought clarification on the patient's condition and treatment plan. The doctor provided additional context and reassured us that the prescription was appropriate and necessary for the patient's medical needs. As a result of our diligent efforts, we ensured that the patient received the necessary medication while upholding our ethical obligations. This experience highlighted the importance of thorough assessment, collaboration, and effective communication in making ethical judgments in the pharmaceutical field.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes beyond the solid answer by providing more specific details and context to the ethical judgment made by the candidate. It mentions the customer presenting a prescription for a high-strength opioid medication and the prescribing doctor's history of overprescribing controlled substances. It also discusses the extensive review process conducted by the candidate in collaboration with the pharmacist, including examining the patient's medical records and comparing the prescription to recommended guidelines. Additionally, it highlights the importance of effective communication with the prescribing doctor to address concerns and ensure the appropriateness of the medication. This answer demonstrates a higher level of critical thinking, thoroughness, and decision-making skills. However, it can be further improved by discussing the specific regulations and guidelines that guided the candidate's actions.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with the laws, regulations, and industry guidelines related to ethical practices in the pharmaceutical field. Stay updated on any changes or updates to these requirements.
Reflect on past experiences where you had to make ethical judgments in your work. Think about the decision-making process you went through and the factors you considered.
Be prepared to discuss the potential ethical dilemmas that can arise in the pharmaceutical industry, such as dispensing controlled substances or handling sensitive patient information.
Practice explaining your ethical judgment in a clear and concise manner, emphasizing your commitment to upholding ethical standards and prioritizing patient well-being.
Highlight your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with colleagues or supervisors to address ethical challenges.

What interviewers are evaluating

Ethical judgment and integrity