South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

What is the required action if a registrant cannot produce controlled substance records immediately during an inspection?

1. They should prepare to have a follow-up inspection scheduled

2. They should contact law enforcement for assistance

3. They should destroy any outdated records

4. They should submit paperwork for a permanent waiver

The correct answer is: They should prepare to have a follow-up inspection scheduled

If a registrant cannot produce controlled substance records immediately during an inspection, the appropriate action is to prepare for a follow-up inspection. This allows for the necessary records to be gathered and made available for review at a later date. It is important for the registrant to demonstrate compliance with regulations surrounding controlled substances, and scheduling a follow-up ensures that the inspection process can still fulfill its purpose without immediate access to all documentation. Preparing for a follow-up is a standard practice in regulatory inspections, as it acknowledges that circumstances may not always allow for instant verification of compliance. It also keeps the lines of communication open with the inspecting authority, showing that the registrant is cooperative and willing to comply with the law. This approach can help mitigate any potential concerns about transparency or accountability regarding the handling of controlled substances. In other situations, contacting law enforcement would not be appropriate and could complicate matters unnecessarily. Destroying records is never a responsible or legal action when facing an inspection, as it undermines the trust and legal requirements governing controlled substances. Submitting paperwork for a permanent waiver usually pertains to different regulatory requirements rather than addressing immediate compliance during an inspection.