What safeguards are required for pharmacies to prevent drug diversion?

The correct answer encompasses essential practices that pharmacies must implement to mitigate the risk of drug diversion. Regular audits are critical because they help identify discrepancies in inventory, allowing pharmacies to detect potential theft or mismanagement of controlled substances. These audits should be systematic and comprehensive, ensuring that records align with actual stock levels.

Staff training is also vital, as it ensures that all employees are aware of the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with handling controlled substances. Training can cover topics such as recognizing suspicious activity, understanding reporting procedures, and following proper protocols for dispensing medications.

Secure storage of controlled substances is necessary to physically restrict access to these medications, minimizing the opportunity for theft or unauthorized access. This typically involves using locking cabinets or safes which are compliant with regulatory standards.

While employee background checks, daily sales reports, and temperature monitoring may have their own roles in pharmacy operations, they do not directly encompass the full scope of safeguards required to prevent drug diversion as outlined in the best practices for pharmacies.