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Emergency hydrocortisone omission — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsEmergency hydrocortisone omissionGPhC CRA

A patient with adrenal insufficiency says their hydrocortisone tablets were left on a train and they missed the morning dose. They feels dizzy and unwell. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: B — Arrange urgent supply or referral because omission can be dangerous

Patients dependent on replacement corticosteroids are at risk of adrenal crisis if doses are missed, especially when unwell. Urgent action is needed to restore therapy and assess symptoms. In this scenario, the correct option is arrange urgent supply or referral because omission can be dangerous. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS