PTCB Practice Test 2: The below PTCB Practice Test 2 is focused on the Federal Requirements domain, which makes up 12.5% of the actual PTCB Exam. This section tests your knowledge of federal laws, regulations, and pharmacy standards that are critical for safe and legal pharmacy practice. By practicing these questions, you’ll improve your understanding of topics like controlled substances, DEA regulations, prescription requirements, and record-keeping rules.
PTCB Practice Test 2 – 50 Practice Questions
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCB Exam) is a nationally recognized certification test conducted by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. This exam is designed for individuals who want to become certified pharmacy technicians (CPhT) in the United States. Earning the PTCB certification helps pharmacy technicians demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and commitment to medication safety and patient care.
PTCB Practice Test
Use this practice test to assess your readiness and identify areas that need more review. Answer each question carefully, and don’t forget to check the explanations provided for better learning. Strengthening your knowledge in federal requirements will help you boost your overall PTCB exam score and ensure you are prepared for real-world pharmacy scenarios.
PTCB Practice Test 2
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PTCB Practice Test 2
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Question 1 of 50
1. Question
A controlled substance prescription is faxed to a pharmacy. Under what condition can it be filled without obtaining the original written prescription?
Correct
Schedule II prescriptions may be faxed only in emergency situations. The prescriber must provide a follow-up written prescription within seven days.
Incorrect
Schedule II prescriptions may be faxed only in emergency situations. The prescriber must provide a follow-up written prescription within seven days.
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Question 2 of 50
2. Question
What is the maximum amount of pseudoephedrine that can be sold to a customer in one day?
Correct
Under the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act (CMEA), a customer can purchase no more than 3.6 grams of pseudoephedrine in a single day. This law prevents the illicit production of methamphetamine.
Incorrect
Under the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act (CMEA), a customer can purchase no more than 3.6 grams of pseudoephedrine in a single day. This law prevents the illicit production of methamphetamine.
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Question 3 of 50
3. Question
A pharmacy loses its DEA registration due to violations. What happens to its remaining controlled substance inventory?
Correct
When a pharmacy loses DEA privileges, its remaining controlled substance inventory must be returned to a DEA-registered reverse distributor for proper disposal.
Incorrect
When a pharmacy loses DEA privileges, its remaining controlled substance inventory must be returned to a DEA-registered reverse distributor for proper disposal.
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Question 4 of 50
4. Question
A pharmacy finds expired fentanyl patches while conducting an inventory audit. What is the most legally compliant method of disposal?
Correct
Expired Schedule II drugs must be destroyed using DEA-approved methods and documented with DEA Form 41 to prevent diversion.
Incorrect
Expired Schedule II drugs must be destroyed using DEA-approved methods and documented with DEA Form 41 to prevent diversion.
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Question 5 of 50
5. Question
A physician writes a prescription for Adderall XR (Schedule II) with the instruction “Dispense as needed” for ADHD. What should the pharmacy do?
Correct
Schedule II prescriptions must have a specific dosage schedule. “As needed” instructions are not permitted under federal law, requiring a new prescription with clear instructions.
Incorrect
Schedule II prescriptions must have a specific dosage schedule. “As needed” instructions are not permitted under federal law, requiring a new prescription with clear instructions.
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Question 6 of 50
6. Question
A pharmacy receives a prescription for a Schedule II drug electronically but notices the prescriber’s DEA number is missing. What is the correct action?
Correct
Schedule II prescriptions require a valid DEA number. The pharmacy must verify the prescriber’s registration before dispensing to ensure compliance with federal law.
Incorrect
Schedule II prescriptions require a valid DEA number. The pharmacy must verify the prescriber’s registration before dispensing to ensure compliance with federal law.
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Question 7 of 50
7. Question
A pharmacy wants to transfer a Schedule II prescription to another pharmacy at the patient’s request. What is the correct action?
Correct
Schedule II prescriptions cannot be transferred except in special cases, such as electronic prescriptions for unfilled medications.
Incorrect
Schedule II prescriptions cannot be transferred except in special cases, such as electronic prescriptions for unfilled medications.
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Question 8 of 50
8. Question
Which of the following DEA forms is required to order Schedule II controlled substances?
Correct
DEA Form 222 is required to order Schedule II drugs. This form ensures accountability and prevents unauthorized distribution.
Incorrect
DEA Form 222 is required to order Schedule II drugs. This form ensures accountability and prevents unauthorized distribution.
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Question 9 of 50
9. Question
A patient presents a prescription for methadone but is not enrolled in an opioid treatment program. What should the pharmacy do?
Correct
Methadone can only be dispensed for opioid addiction in DEA-registered opioid treatment programs (OTPs). However, it can be dispensed for pain management with a valid prescription.
Incorrect
Methadone can only be dispensed for opioid addiction in DEA-registered opioid treatment programs (OTPs). However, it can be dispensed for pain management with a valid prescription.
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Question 10 of 50
10. Question
During an inventory check, a pharmacy discovers that several vials of morphine are missing. What should be done immediately?
Correct
Significant losses of controlled substances must be reported to the DEA immediately using Form 106 to prevent diversion and ensure compliance.
Incorrect
Significant losses of controlled substances must be reported to the DEA immediately using Form 106 to prevent diversion and ensure compliance.
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Question 11 of 50
11. Question
Which DEA schedule includes drugs with the highest abuse potential and no accepted medical use?
Correct
Schedule I drugs (e.g., heroin, LSD) have no accepted medical use and are considered highly dangerous with a high potential for abuse.
Incorrect
Schedule I drugs (e.g., heroin, LSD) have no accepted medical use and are considered highly dangerous with a high potential for abuse.
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Question 12 of 50
12. Question
A pharmacy receives a Schedule III prescription for testosterone with three refills, but the patient requests an early refill two weeks before the next due date. What should be done?
Correct
Schedule III drugs can have refills but must follow strict refill timeframes. If an early refill is requested, prescriber authorization is needed to ensure compliance.
Incorrect
Schedule III drugs can have refills but must follow strict refill timeframes. If an early refill is requested, prescriber authorization is needed to ensure compliance.
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Question 13 of 50
13. Question
Which federal agency regulates controlled substances in the United States?
Correct
The DEA enforces the Controlled Substances Act, regulating the manufacture, distribution, and dispensing of controlled substances to prevent misuse and diversion.
Incorrect
The DEA enforces the Controlled Substances Act, regulating the manufacture, distribution, and dispensing of controlled substances to prevent misuse and diversion.
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Question 14 of 50
14. Question
Which federal law requires pharmacies to keep patient records confidential?
Correct
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects patient privacy and mandates secure handling of medical and prescription records.
Incorrect
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects patient privacy and mandates secure handling of medical and prescription records.
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Question 15 of 50
15. Question
A physician writes a 30-day prescription for a Schedule III medication with six refills. The patient attempts to refill early after 20 days. What should the pharmacy technician do?
Correct
Schedule III drugs can be refilled up to five times in six months, but refills must follow time restrictions. Early refills require prescriber authorization to ensure compliance.
Incorrect
Schedule III drugs can be refilled up to five times in six months, but refills must follow time restrictions. Early refills require prescriber authorization to ensure compliance.
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Question 16 of 50
16. Question
Which controlled substance schedule allows over-the-counter sales in some states?
Correct
Schedule V drugs, such as certain cough syrups with codeine, may be available OTC in some states with proper documentation.
Incorrect
Schedule V drugs, such as certain cough syrups with codeine, may be available OTC in some states with proper documentation.
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Question 17 of 50
17. Question
A pharmacist is reviewing a shipment of controlled substances and notices that the supplier accidentally sent an extra bottle of oxycodone. What is the appropriate action?
Correct
Schedule II drugs require strict documentation. If an extra bottle is received, it must be returned to the supplier with a corrected DEA Form 222 to maintain compliance.
Incorrect
Schedule II drugs require strict documentation. If an extra bottle is received, it must be returned to the supplier with a corrected DEA Form 222 to maintain compliance.
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Question 18 of 50
18. Question
A pharmacy technician finds an expired fentanyl patch in the pharmacy’s stock. What is the appropriate disposal method?
Correct
Expired controlled substances should be transferred to a DEA-registered reverse distributor for proper disposal, ensuring regulatory compliance and preventing diversion.
Incorrect
Expired controlled substances should be transferred to a DEA-registered reverse distributor for proper disposal, ensuring regulatory compliance and preventing diversion.
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Question 19 of 50
19. Question
How must expired Schedule II controlled substances be handled?
Correct
Expired Schedule II drugs must be destroyed following DEA regulations and documented using DEA Form 41.
Incorrect
Expired Schedule II drugs must be destroyed following DEA regulations and documented using DEA Form 41.
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Question 20 of 50
20. Question
Which class of drugs must be stored separately from non-controlled medications?
Correct
All controlled substances must be stored securely to prevent theft and unauthorized access, following DEA regulations.
Incorrect
All controlled substances must be stored securely to prevent theft and unauthorized access, following DEA regulations.
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Question 21 of 50
21. Question
A pharmacy discovers that a Schedule II controlled substance is missing from its inventory. What is the first step according to DEA regulations?
Correct
The DEA requires reporting of controlled substance theft or significant loss immediately using DEA Form 106. Delaying reporting or failing to report may result in severe penalties.
Incorrect
The DEA requires reporting of controlled substance theft or significant loss immediately using DEA Form 106. Delaying reporting or failing to report may result in severe penalties.
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Question 22 of 50
22. Question
A patient brings back unused oxycodone tablets for disposal. How should the pharmacy handle the return?
Correct
Pharmacies should direct patients to DEA take-back programs or authorized collection sites for safe disposal of unused controlled substances.
Incorrect
Pharmacies should direct patients to DEA take-back programs or authorized collection sites for safe disposal of unused controlled substances.
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Question 23 of 50
23. Question
A patient attempts to purchase pseudoephedrine but does not provide a government-issued ID. What should the pharmacy technician do?
Correct
Under the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act (CMEA), pseudoephedrine sales require a government-issued ID to track purchases and prevent misuse in methamphetamine production.
Incorrect
Under the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act (CMEA), pseudoephedrine sales require a government-issued ID to track purchases and prevent misuse in methamphetamine production.
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Question 24 of 50
24. Question
Which agency is responsible for enforcing drug labeling and recall regulations?
Correct
The FDA enforces drug labeling requirements, recalls unsafe drugs, and ensures compliance with safety standards.
Incorrect
The FDA enforces drug labeling requirements, recalls unsafe drugs, and ensures compliance with safety standards.
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Question 25 of 50
25. Question
What is the primary purpose of the DEA’s take-back program?
Correct
The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back program allows consumers to return unused medications for safe disposal, preventing misuse and environmental contamination.
Incorrect
The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back program allows consumers to return unused medications for safe disposal, preventing misuse and environmental contamination.
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Question 26 of 50
26. Question
Which of the following drugs is required to be stored in a locked, secure location in the pharmacy?
Correct
Methylphenidate (Schedule II) must be stored in a secure, locked location or dispersed throughout inventory to prevent theft. Schedule III-V drugs have less stringent storage requirements.
Incorrect
Methylphenidate (Schedule II) must be stored in a secure, locked location or dispersed throughout inventory to prevent theft. Schedule III-V drugs have less stringent storage requirements.
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Question 27 of 50
27. Question
A prescriber writes a Schedule III opioid prescription with a refill request for six months. What action should the pharmacy take?
Correct
Schedule III-V prescriptions can have up to five refills in six months, but no more. Pharmacies must monitor refill compliance closely.
Incorrect
Schedule III-V prescriptions can have up to five refills in six months, but no more. Pharmacies must monitor refill compliance closely.
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Question 28 of 50
28. Question
Which schedule of drugs requires a written prescription with no refills allowed?
Correct
Schedule II drugs require a written prescription and cannot be refilled to prevent misuse and diversion.
Incorrect
Schedule II drugs require a written prescription and cannot be refilled to prevent misuse and diversion.
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Question 29 of 50
29. Question
Which DEA form is required to register a new pharmacy to dispense controlled substances?
Correct
DEA Form 224 is used by pharmacies to register with the DEA for legal authorization to dispense controlled substances.
Incorrect
DEA Form 224 is used by pharmacies to register with the DEA for legal authorization to dispense controlled substances.
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Question 30 of 50
30. Question
What is required before a pharmacy can dispense a new investigational drug to a patient?
Correct
Investigational drugs require an FDA-approved IND application before they can be dispensed to patients in clinical trials.
Incorrect
Investigational drugs require an FDA-approved IND application before they can be dispensed to patients in clinical trials.
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Question 31 of 50
31. Question
Which of the following is a DEA requirement when transferring Schedule II controlled substances between pharmacies?
Correct
Schedule II drugs require DEA Form 222 for transfers, ensuring accurate tracking and preventing unauthorized distribution.
Incorrect
Schedule II drugs require DEA Form 222 for transfers, ensuring accurate tracking and preventing unauthorized distribution.
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Question 32 of 50
32. Question
A pharmacy technician receives a patient request to transfer a Schedule III opioid prescription to another pharmacy. What is the correct procedure?
Correct
Schedule III-V prescriptions can be transferred once between pharmacies if refills remain. The transfer must be documented according to DEA regulations.
Incorrect
Schedule III-V prescriptions can be transferred once between pharmacies if refills remain. The transfer must be documented according to DEA regulations.
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Question 33 of 50
33. Question
A pharmacist receives a verbal order for a Schedule II opioid from a hospital physician who states it is for an emergency. What should be done next?
Correct
Emergency Schedule II prescriptions may be taken verbally but must be followed up with a written prescription within 7 days to remain compliant with federal law.
Incorrect
Emergency Schedule II prescriptions may be taken verbally but must be followed up with a written prescription within 7 days to remain compliant with federal law.
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Question 34 of 50
34. Question
What is required when a pharmacy transfers Schedule II drugs to another pharmacy?
Correct
Schedule II drug transfers require DEA Form 222 to document and track controlled substance movement.
Incorrect
Schedule II drug transfers require DEA Form 222 to document and track controlled substance movement.
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Question 35 of 50
35. Question
A pharmacist notices that a long-term care facility is storing unused morphine sulfate vials without proper labeling. What is the correct action?
Correct
Controlled substances in long-term care facilities must be securely stored and properly labeled. Unused medications should be destroyed following DEA guidelines to prevent diversion.
Incorrect
Controlled substances in long-term care facilities must be securely stored and properly labeled. Unused medications should be destroyed following DEA guidelines to prevent diversion.
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Question 36 of 50
36. Question
A patient presents a prescription for a Schedule II opioid, but the pharmacist notices it is written in blue ink and appears to be photocopied. What should the pharmacist do first?
Correct
Pharmacists must first verify a suspicious prescription with the prescriber. If fraud is suspected, it should be reported to the DEA and not filled.
Incorrect
Pharmacists must first verify a suspicious prescription with the prescriber. If fraud is suspected, it should be reported to the DEA and not filled.
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Question 37 of 50
37. Question
A pharmacy technician is preparing to dispense a new investigational controlled substance. What federal requirement must be met first?
Correct
Before dispensing investigational controlled substances, they must have an FDA-approved IND application to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
Incorrect
Before dispensing investigational controlled substances, they must have an FDA-approved IND application to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
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Question 38 of 50
38. Question
Which of the following must be reported immediately if a pharmacy suspects controlled substance diversion?
Correct
Pharmacies must report suspected controlled substance diversion to the DEA immediately using DEA Form 106 to prevent drug misuse and ensure compliance with federal law.
Incorrect
Pharmacies must report suspected controlled substance diversion to the DEA immediately using DEA Form 106 to prevent drug misuse and ensure compliance with federal law.
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Question 39 of 50
39. Question
A pharmacy receives an excessive number of prescriptions for controlled substances from an out-of-state prescriber. What is the appropriate response?
Correct
Pharmacies must verify out-of-state controlled substance prescriptions for legitimacy. If suspicious patterns persist, they should report the issue to the DEA.
Incorrect
Pharmacies must verify out-of-state controlled substance prescriptions for legitimacy. If suspicious patterns persist, they should report the issue to the DEA.
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Question 40 of 50
40. Question
A pharmacy receives a Class II drug recall notice but still has the medication in stock. What should be done immediately?
Correct
For Class II recalls (moderate health risk), affected drugs should be quarantined immediately while awaiting further instructions from the manufacturer or FDA.
Incorrect
For Class II recalls (moderate health risk), affected drugs should be quarantined immediately while awaiting further instructions from the manufacturer or FDA.
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Question 41 of 50
41. Question
Which of the following controlled substances can be refilled up to five times in six months?
Correct
Schedule IV drugs, such as alprazolam, can be refilled up to five times within six months. Schedule II drugs, like fentanyl and methadone, cannot be refilled.
Incorrect
Schedule IV drugs, such as alprazolam, can be refilled up to five times within six months. Schedule II drugs, like fentanyl and methadone, cannot be refilled.
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Question 42 of 50
42. Question
Which act mandates that controlled substances be classified based on their medical use and potential for abuse?
Correct
The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) establishes DEA schedules based on abuse potential and medical use, regulating prescription, distribution, and handling.
Incorrect
The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) establishes DEA schedules based on abuse potential and medical use, regulating prescription, distribution, and handling.
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Question 43 of 50
43. Question
What is the purpose of a DEA take-back program?
Correct
DEA take-back programs allow patients to return unused medications for safe disposal, reducing the risk of drug diversion and environmental harm.
Incorrect
DEA take-back programs allow patients to return unused medications for safe disposal, reducing the risk of drug diversion and environmental harm.
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Question 44 of 50
44. Question
Which of the following medications is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance?
Correct
Codeine-containing combination products are Schedule III because they have a moderate potential for abuse, unlike Schedule II opioids such as oxycodone and morphine.
Incorrect
Codeine-containing combination products are Schedule III because they have a moderate potential for abuse, unlike Schedule II opioids such as oxycodone and morphine.
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Question 45 of 50
45. Question
A pharmacy receives an order for a Schedule II medication, but the supplier sends only half of the requested quantity. What is the correct action?
Correct
Partial Schedule II orders may be completed within 60 days from the initial order date, following DEA regulations to prevent supply issues.
Incorrect
Partial Schedule II orders may be completed within 60 days from the initial order date, following DEA regulations to prevent supply issues.
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Question 46 of 50
46. Question
A pharmacy fills a Schedule III prescription, but the patient never picks it up. What should be done with the medication?
Correct
For unclaimed prescriptions, pharmacies must document the return to inventory to ensure proper tracking of controlled substances.
Incorrect
For unclaimed prescriptions, pharmacies must document the return to inventory to ensure proper tracking of controlled substances.
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Question 47 of 50
47. Question
A prescriber writes a 90-day prescription for a Schedule II stimulant with three separate 30-day fill dates. What should the pharmacy technician verify before dispensing?
Correct
Multiple Schedule II prescriptions must have clearly written future fill dates. Without these dates, the pharmacy cannot dispense future fills.
Incorrect
Multiple Schedule II prescriptions must have clearly written future fill dates. Without these dates, the pharmacy cannot dispense future fills.
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Question 48 of 50
48. Question
A pharmacy receives a shipment of alprazolam but notices discrepancies in the invoice compared to the actual delivery. What should be done?
Correct
All controlled substance discrepancies must be resolved with the supplier first before adjusting inventory records to ensure compliance with DEA regulations.
Incorrect
All controlled substance discrepancies must be resolved with the supplier first before adjusting inventory records to ensure compliance with DEA regulations.
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Question 49 of 50
49. Question
Which of the following is considered a non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste?
Correct
Antibiotics are classified as non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste and can be disposed of following standard pharmacy waste guidelines.
Incorrect
Antibiotics are classified as non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste and can be disposed of following standard pharmacy waste guidelines.
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Question 50 of 50
50. Question
During an inspection, the DEA finds missing documentation for transferred Schedule II drugs. What could be the consequence for the pharmacy?
Correct
DEA violations, especially missing documentation for controlled substances, may result in fines, legal action, or revocation of DEA privileges, depending on severity and intent.
Incorrect
DEA violations, especially missing documentation for controlled substances, may result in fines, legal action, or revocation of DEA privileges, depending on severity and intent.