South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

In a hospital setting, what is the requirement for verbal or telephone orders for controlled substances?

1. Must be immediately verified by a nurse

2. Must be documented by the pharmacist

3. Physician must verify within 72 hours

4. No verification is necessary

The correct answer is: Physician must verify within 72 hours

In a hospital setting, the requirement for verbal or telephone orders for controlled substances is that the physician must verify these orders within a specified timeframe, which is typically 72 hours. This verification process is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and appropriateness of medication orders, especially for controlled substances, which are subject to strict regulations due to their potential for abuse and addiction. Verbal or telephone orders can pose a risk for miscommunication or errors, so having a defined verification period helps maintain patient safety and ensures that the prescribing physician reviews and confirms the order as appropriate. In many regulatory frameworks, including those that govern pharmacy practice in South Carolina, this verification is required to uphold professional standards in managing controlled substances and to support accountability among healthcare providers. The other options, while they may touch upon aspects of order verification or documentation, do not align with the specific requirement that mandates a physician's verification of the order within 72 hours. This emphasizes the importance of proper procedures in handling controlled substances and adhering to legal requirements in the healthcare environment.