A new technician is shown where Schedule II medicines such as morphine tablets are kept in the pharmacy. The supervising pharmacist explains the federal expectation for storing these controlled substances. Which storage arrangement meets the requirement?
- AIn a securely locked cabinet or safe with restricted access Correct
- BOn an open shelf beside other oral tablets for quick retrieval
- CIn the staff break-room cupboard away from the dispensing floor
- DDispersed throughout general stock so no single area attracts theft
Why A is correct: Federal rules require controlled substances to be kept in a securely locked, substantially constructed enclosure with access restricted to authorised staff, which this arrangement satisfies.
Why B is wrong: Quick retrieval is convenient, but leaving controlled substances openly accessible fails the security expectation, so it is wrong.
Why C is wrong: Moving stock off the floor may feel safer, but an unsecured break-room cupboard still lacks the required locked, restricted access, so it is incorrect.
Why D is wrong: Dispersing stock sounds like a theft-deterrent tactic, but it removes secure control and accountability for each item, so it does not meet the rule.