How should controlled substances be counted and documented?

Controlled substances must be counted and documented with a high level of accuracy and accountability due to their potential for abuse and legal regulations governing their use. The practice of using a designated log, with counts verified by two staff members, ensures a thorough and transparent process. This method minimizes the risk of discrepancies, mistakes, and any potential misconduct related to the handling of controlled substances.

By having two staff members verify the counts, it introduces a system of checks and balances that enhances security and accountability. This practice is essential in maintaining the integrity of medication distribution and ensuring that all medications are accounted for, which is a crucial aspect of safe medication administration in a residential care setting.

Other methods, such as using a verbal log or personal daily journals, lack the necessary structure and verification needed to ensure accurate counting and documentation. Shared online documents may not provide the same level of security and can be susceptible to unauthorized access or changes. Thus, the use of a designated log verified by two staff members stands out as the most reliable and effective approach for managing controlled substances.