South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

According to federal law, how should records for controlled substances be stored?

1. Three separate files

2. Single file system

3. Two or three file system with specific marking on prescriptions

4. Digital storage only

The correct answer is: Two or three file system with specific marking on prescriptions

Records for controlled substances must be maintained according to specific regulations outlined in federal law. The correct approach is to use a two or three file system for storing prescriptions. This system requires the segregation of controlled substance prescriptions from non-controlled substances, which helps ensure proper tracking and management of these potentially abused substances. In this method, prescriptions for Schedule II drugs are often kept in a separate file. For Schedule III, IV, and V substances, these can either be filed together or maintained separately but must be clearly marked. This clear categorization serves multiple purposes: it simplifies retrieval for inspections, minimizes potential for theft, and aligns with various monitoring requirements aimed at preventing misuse. The integrity of these records is crucial for pharmacological safety and regulatory compliance, and employing such a dual or triple-file system greatly supports these objectives. In contrast, storing in a single file system would blend controlled and non-controlled substances, complicating record-keeping and oversight. A solely digital storage option is not acceptable under current regulations without proper backup and security measures, ensuring that records remain accessible and retrievable in compliance with federal requirements.