Arkansas Long Term Care Administrator Practice Exam

What is the purpose of the record for controlled drugs?

1. To track inventory for billing purposes

2. To document drug procurement and administration

3. To maintain a list of all medications available

4. To monitor side effects reported by patients

The correct answer is: To document drug procurement and administration

The record for controlled drugs primarily serves to document drug procurement and administration. This is crucial in long-term care facilities to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements surrounding the handling of controlled substances. By maintaining a comprehensive record, administrators can accurately track when and where controlled drugs are obtained, who has administered them, and to which patients they have been given. This accountability helps prevent misuse and promotes safe medication practices, ultimately safeguarding patient health. While tracking inventory for billing purposes, maintaining a list of all medications available, and monitoring side effects are important aspects of medication management, they do not encompass the specific and critical purpose of recording controlled drugs. The documentation of procurement and administration is particularly essential for controlled substances due to their potential for abuse and the stringent regulations governing their use.