When receiving a faxed prescription for a Schedule II controlled substance from a nursing home, what must happen according to regulations?

When a pharmacy receives a faxed prescription for a Schedule II controlled substance from a nursing home, it is essential that the physician sends the original prescription. Regulations concerning Controlled Substances, particularly Schedule II medications, are stringent due to the potential for abuse and the necessity for close supervision.

The rationale behind requiring the original prescription for Schedule II substances is to maintain a stringent tracking and accountability system. This requirement helps to ensure that prescriptions are valid and that there is a clear record of who prescribed the medication, thus safeguarding against potential misuse. While there may be circumstances under which a fax can be utilized, such as in emergencies or when state law allows, the standard expectation remains that the original prescription is ultimately provided.

Other options do not align with regulatory requirements for handling Schedule II prescriptions. For instance, destroying a faxed prescription or allowing a physician's representative to pick up an original might not meet legal standards, as they do not conform to the necessary protocols for tracking controlled substances. Therefore, sending the original prescription is the correct course of action in this context, ensuring compliance with the law.