When should narcotics be checked during a shift change?

The proper time for checking narcotics during a shift change is during a two-person shift change. This practice ensures that one person can oversee the process while the other verifies the narcotics inventory. Conducting this check with two individuals enhances accountability and accuracy, reducing the risk of discrepancies or errors in medication management. It provides an opportunity for clear communication regarding how narcotics have been handled during the previous shift and helps ensure that all procedures related to medication safety are followed. This practice aligns with best protocols for maintaining safety and integrity in the handling of controlled substances.

Other options, while they reflect important moments in patient care and medication management, do not specifically address the dual verification requirement that occurs during a shift change. Checking narcotics when a new patient is admitted or when the patient is unresponsive may be necessary for safety within that context, but these instances do not fulfill the protocol for shift transitions, which requires the collaborative verification process. Checking at the beginning of a shift alone does not involve the second party, which is essential for proper narcotics accountability.