Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam

How often is a full inventory of all pharmacy items required by federal law?

1. Every 6 months

2. Yearly

3. Every 2 years

4. Every 3 years

The correct answer is: Every 2 years

The requirement for a full inventory of all pharmacy items by federal law is indeed every 2 years. This is particularly important in the context of controlled substances, as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) mandates that pharmacies perform a complete inventory of all controlled substances on hand at least every 2 years. This process helps ensure proper tracking, accountability, and compliance with regulations surrounding the storage and dispensing of these medications. Conducting an inventory at this interval helps to identify any discrepancies that may suggest misuse or theft, thereby maintaining proper oversight of pharmaceutical inventory and enhancing patient safety. While other frequencies may be relevant for different types of inventory or internal procedures, federal law specifically stipulates the biennial inventory requirement for controlled substances, making it a critical task for pharmacy technicians and pharmacists alike.