Prevention and education
Prevention and education ( 10 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who has been prescribed a Schedule III controlled substance for moderate pain. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when administering this medication?
This is not required for Schedule III controlled substances, as they can be refilled up to five times within six months by phone or fax. However, this is required for Schedule II controlled substances, which have a higher potential for abuse and addiction.
Rationale: Schedule III controlled substances are drugs that have a moderate potential for abuse and addiction and are subject to moderate regulations by the DEA. The nurse should count and document the remaining supply of medication every time they administer a Schedule III controlled substance to ensure accuracy and prevent diversion.
This is not an appropriate way to dispose of any unused medication, as it can pose a risk of injury or infection to others. The nurse should dispose of any unused medication by using a DEA-approved disposal company or following the facility's policy.
This is not required for Schedule III controlled substances, as they can be administered by various routes depending on the formulation and indication. However, some Schedule II controlled substances, such as morphine or fentanyl, are administered only by intravenous route for acute pain management.
Correct answer: b) Count and document the remaining supply of medication
Rationale: Schedule III controlled substances are drugs that have a moderate potential for abuse and addiction and are subject to moderate regulations by the DEA. The nurse should count and document the remaining supply of medication every time they administer a Schedule III controlled substance to ensure accuracy and prevent diversion.
Incorrect choices:
a) Obtain a written prescription from the provider every time: This is not required for Schedule III controlled substances, as they can be refilled up to five times within six months by phone or fax. However, this is required for Schedule II controlled substances, which have a higher potential for abuse and addiction.
c) Dispose of any unused medication in a sharps container: This is not an appropriate way to dispose of any unused medication, as it can pose a risk of injury or infection to others. The nurse should dispose of any unused medication by using a DEA-approved disposal company or following the facility's policy.
d) Administer the medication only by intravenous route: This is not required for Schedule III controlled substances, as they can be administered by various routes depending on the formulation and indication. However, some Schedule II controlled substances, such as morphine or fentanyl, are administered only by intravenous route for acute pain management.