At shift change, floor stock reconciliation for controlled substances should be conducted by whom?

• A. The incoming nurse only
• B. The arriving/leaving professional
• C. Security officer
• D. Medical records staff

Answer: (B)

Reconciliation of floor stock for controlled substances at shift change is done by the arriving and leaving professionals. This dual-check approach creates accountability and helps catch discrepancies immediately, which is crucial for these tightly regulated meds. By counting together and comparing to the records, both the outgoing and incoming staff verify that the inventory matches what’s documented, ensuring proper custody and reducing the risk of diversion. Having only the incoming nurse would miss the perspective and checks that the outgoing shift brings, while security officers or medical records staff aren’t typically responsible for day-to-day medication counts or accountability for controlled substances.