What action is necessary if a pharmacy finds discrepancies during an inventory of controlled substances?

When a pharmacy discovers discrepancies during an inventory of controlled substances, it is essential to document and investigate the discrepancies thoroughly. This action ensures that the pharmacy complies with regulatory requirements and maintains accountability for the controlled substances in its possession.

Documenting the findings serves as a formal record of the discrepancies, which is crucial for both internal audits and compliance with state and federal regulations. Investigating the discrepancies allows pharmacists and the pharmacy staff to identify the reasons behind the discrepancies, which could range from clerical errors to potential loss or theft of controlled substances.

By taking these steps, pharmacies uphold their responsibility to manage controlled substances carefully and to protect public health and safety. Not addressing the discrepancies or simply adjusting records without proper investigation could lead to non-compliance with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations and potentially severe legal repercussions. Thus, careful documentation and thorough investigation are the appropriate and necessary actions in these situations.