What must happen if the pharmacist in charge leaves their position?

When a pharmacist in charge leaves their position, it is essential to conduct an inventory of all controlled substances. This requirement is rooted in maintaining accountability for controlled substances within a pharmacy. The inventory is crucial for ensuring that all medications are properly accounted for, reflecting accurate quantities that exist in the pharmacy at the time of the transition. This process helps prevent discrepancies that can lead to potential abuse or mismanagement of controlled substances and serves as a safeguard to protect both the pharmacy and public health.

Conducting this inventory ensures that any remaining pharmacist can verify the stock and confirm that it aligns with the records held by the pharmacy, reducing the risk of diversion or loss. Additionally, it aids in fulfilling federal and state regulations regarding the management of controlled substances in the pharmacy setting. This proactive step is integral to preserving the integrity of the pharmacy operations and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Other options, such as notifying patients, destroying controlled substances, or returning prescriptions, do not address the critical need for inventory management when a pharmacist in charge departs. These actions are outside the immediate responsibility connected to the change in personnel and do not fulfill the legal obligations affecting controlled substances.