What must be included in a pharmacist's consultation with a patient according to Alaska regulations?

A pharmacist's consultation with a patient, according to Alaska regulations, must include information on the medications being dispensed, potential side effects, and proper usage. This emphasis reflects the primary responsibility of pharmacists to ensure that patients understand the medications they are receiving. This information enables patients to use their medications effectively and safely, reducing the likelihood of medication errors and adverse drug reactions. By providing thorough information on dosages, administration routes, potential interactions, and side effects, pharmacists play a crucial role in supporting patient education and healthcare safety.

The other options, while relevant to patient care, do not encompass the core aspects mandated for a pharmacist's consultation. The patient's medical history is important for providing tailored advice but is not specifically required as part of the consultation contents. The cost of medications can influence patient choices but is not a regulatory requirement for consultation. Likewise, understanding the pharmacy's return policy is useful information for patients but does not pertain to the necessary clinical aspects of medication counseling. Therefore, option B stands out as the essential element that aligns with both regulatory expectations and the role of the pharmacist in promoting safe medication practices.