you are performing a regular inventory of the controlled substances in the pharmacy. you discover a minor inventory discrepancy. what should you do?
Follow your pharmacy’s controlled-substance discrepancy procedure right away: recount and verify the count, review dispensing/receiving records, document the discrepancy, and notify the pharmacist-in-charge or supervisor. If the discrepancy remains unresolved, escalate it according to policy and applicable reporting rules.
What to do
- Recount the stock and verify the count against records.
- Check recent fills, returns, purchases, wastage, and transfers for a clerical explanation.
- Document the amount, drug name, date, and any findings.
- Report it internally to the responsible pharmacist/manager immediately.
- If it stays unresolved or meets reporting thresholds, follow the required external reporting process for your jurisdiction.
Best answer
For a minor discrepancy, the first step is not law enforcement; it is to follow your pharmacy’s procedures and investigate the discrepancy.
TL;DR
Verify, document, and report internally first; escalate externally only if the discrepancy remains unresolved or your rules require it.