This study has described a variation of the unit-dose drug distribution system and introduced the nurse-pharmacist medication team concept under the direct supervision and control of the pharmacist. The nurses are assigned to the pharmacy and work out of the pharmacy assuming responsibility for the administrative activities and passing medications, formerly the responsibility of a ward nurse. The combined system frees the ward nurse to perform bedside care and reduces the possibility of medication errors by placing tighter controls on the drug system and getting maximum utilization from the professional talent of the pharmacist and the nurse.