Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 5 TSC 117 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Controlled Substances
The idea
Controlled substances are drugs whose possession and use are regulated by federal law because of their potential for abuse and dependence.
In practice
Learn the schedule system in order. First, drugs are placed in five schedules, numbered one to five. Second, Schedule One drugs have a high potential for abuse and severe dependence. Third, Schedule Two is the most controlled class of medications in medical use, and it includes opioids; prescriptions for them are tightly regulated and cannot be refilled. Fourth, Schedules Three and Four carry progressively lower abuse potential. Fifth, Schedule Five drugs have the least potential for abuse. Facilities add their own rules for storing, counting and disposing of controlled substances.
Where people slip
Opioids are used in nearly every anesthetic. They are handled under facility policy by the anesthesia provider and nursing staff, and any controlled substance reaching the sterile field is labelled and accounted for like every other medication.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
Unlocks
- Nothing yet depends on this.
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