South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

What is the maximum day supply for medications dispensed in an emergency room?

1. 24 hours

2. 48 hours

3. 72 hours

4. 5 days

The correct answer is: 72 hours

The maximum day supply for medications dispensed in an emergency room is set at 72 hours to ensure that patients receive immediate care without unnecessary delays, yet it also allows for appropriate follow-up care. The 72-hour limit is designed to provide enough medication for stabilization while encouraging patients to seek further evaluation and treatment if needed. Dispensing medication for more than 72 hours could lead to issues such as misuse, potential dependency, or lack of continued medical supervision. By ensuring that medications provided in an emergency setting are limited to a 72-hour supply, healthcare providers help manage potential risks while still addressing the immediate needs of the patient. The other options either provide too short a supply or extend beyond what is considered safe and appropriate for emergency care. For example, a 24-hour or 48-hour supply might not be sufficient for specific conditions requiring more than just immediate relief, while a 5-day supply exceeds the emergency framework, which could complicate patient management and follow-up.