Which of the following tasks can pharmacy technicians perform?

Pharmacy technicians are integral members of the pharmacy team, and their scope of practice includes various supportive tasks that do not require the same level of training or expertise as those performed by pharmacists. The ability to fill automated dispensing machines under supervision is a task that falls squarely within the duties of pharmacy technicians. This task involves organizing and preparing medications for patient dispensing, which is a critical aspect of ensuring medication is available and ready for patients in a timely manner.

This task typically does not involve making clinical decisions or judgments, which remain the responsibility of pharmacists. Filling automated dispensing machines ensures proper medication management while allowing pharmacists to focus on clinical aspects of patient care, such as evaluating treatment regimens and providing consultations.

The other choices indicate responsibilities that extend beyond the legal and professional limits of a pharmacy technician’s role. Making clinical judgments is a complex task that requires the professional judgment of a licensed pharmacist. Similarly, prescribing medications and performing patient evaluations are also activities reserved for licensed practitioners who have the requisite clinical training and authority to make such decisions. Thus, the responsibility of filling automated dispensing machines under supervision is the only option that accurately reflects the capabilities of pharmacy technicians.