Legal standard of due care for pharmacists in institutional practice.

The process by which courts determine negligence on the part of a pharmacist is discussed, and important malpractice decisions involving pharmacists and other medical professionals are summarized. Courts expect pharmacists to exercise a high level of "due care." It is unclear whether a hospital pharmacist would be held t a standard created by general practitioners or by specialists in institutional practice; but a good case can be made for a special standard. If the court finds that professional standards are deficient, the court may establish higher standards. Pharmacists should ensure that their performance meet legal expectations by keeping abreast of new developments in pharmaceutical practice.