When must a complete audit of all controlled substances occur?

A complete audit of all controlled substances is required upon a change in the Pharmacist-in-charge to ensure that the accountability and integrity of the controlled substances are maintained. This is a critical requirement in pharmacy practice because the Pharmacist-in-charge holds the ultimate responsibility for the management and oversight of the pharmacy's controlled substance inventory.

The audit serves to verify the accuracy of inventory records, identify any discrepancies, and ensure that the pharmacy is compliant with federal and state regulations regarding controlled substances. It is an essential step to safeguard against diversion and misuse, as well as to ensure that all records are aligned with the new pharmacist’s policies and practices.

While audits can also be prompted by other circumstances such as employee terminations or the introduction of new medications, those situations do not carry the same regulatory requirement. The specific need for an audit during a change in leadership underscores the importance of maintaining oversight during transitions that may impact the pharmacy's adherence to laws and regulations governing the handling of controlled substances.