PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)Patient Safety and Quality AssuranceMedium
A pharmacy technician is assisting with the annual inventory of controlled substances. During the count, they discover a discrepancy of 10 tablets of oxycodone 15 mg. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action the technician should take?
- AImmediately notify the supervising pharmacist of the discrepancy.
- BSearch the immediate area thoroughly for the missing tablets before reporting.
- CAssume a data entry error and re-enter the previous inventory count.
- DAdjust the inventory record to reflect the counted amount and continue the inventory.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Immediately notify the supervising pharmacist of the discrepancy.
Any discrepancy involving controlled substances, regardless of the quantity, is a serious matter that must be immediately reported to the supervising pharmacist. The pharmacist is responsible for investigating, documenting, and potentially reporting the loss to regulatory agencies like the DEA.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While searching is part of the investigation, the immediate priority is to notify the pharmacist so they can initiate proper protocol and oversight.
- C. Assuming an error without investigation is inappropriate and can mask actual diversion or loss.
- D. Adjusting records without investigation is a violation of controlled substance protocols.
Controlled Substance Discrepancy Reporting
The protocol for reporting any unaccounted-for controlled substances, which requires immediate notification of the pharmacist.
- Any discrepancy is serious.
- Pharmacist must be notified immediately.
- Investigation and reporting to DEA may be required.
Memory trick: Missing Meds? Alert the Boss, No Time for Loss!