How often must reconciliation of controlled substances in hospital floor stock occur?

Reconciliation of controlled substances in hospital floor stock must occur at every shift change to ensure accurate inventory management and to prevent medication errors or potential drug diversion. Regular reconciliation at this frequency allows for the identification of any discrepancies in the stock, ensuring that all controlled substances are accounted for and that any variances can be promptly investigated. This practice is vital for maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements and promoting patient safety.

While daily reconciliation or reconciliation at the start of a shift might seem useful, they do not provide the same level of oversight during the critical transition periods when one shift hands over responsibilities to another. Weekly checks may not be sufficient in a busy hospital environment where controlled substances could be dispensed frequently. Therefore, reconciling at every shift change strikes a balance between operational efficiency and stringent oversight, aligning with best practices in pharmacy management and regulatory expectations.