A nurse is educating a client who is prescribed a Schedule II controlled substance for chronic pain. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Correct answer: d) All of the above.

Rationale: Schedule II drugs are highly regulated by the federal Controlled Substances Act and require a new written prescription for each refill. Morphine sulfate can cause nausea and vomiting, so taking it with food may help prevent these adverse effects. Morphine sulfate is also a potential drug of abuse and diversion, so it should be stored securely and disposed of properly when no longer needed.

Incorrect choices:
a) "You will need a new written prescription from your provider every time you need a refill.": This is correct, but not the only information the nurse should include in the teaching.

b) "You can take this medication with or without food, depending on your preference.": This is correct, but not the only information the nurse should include in the teaching.

c) "You should store this medication in a locked cabinet away from children and pets.": This is correct, but not the only information the nurse should include in the teaching.

Correct answer: b) Count and document the remaining supply of medication

Rationale: Schedule III controlled substances are drugs that have a moderate potential for abuse and addiction and are subject to moderate regulations by the DEA. The nurse should count and document the remaining supply of medication every time they administer a Schedule III controlled substance to ensure accuracy and prevent diversion.

Incorrect choices:

a) Obtain a written prescription from the provider every time: This is not required for Schedule III controlled substances, as they can be refilled up to five times within six months by phone or fax. However, this is required for Schedule II controlled substances, which have a higher potential for abuse and addiction.

c) Dispose of any unused medication in a sharps container: This is not an appropriate way to dispose of any unused medication, as it can pose a risk of injury or infection to others. The nurse should dispose of any unused medication by using a DEA-approved disposal company or following the facility's policy.

d) Administer the medication only by intravenous route: This is not required for Schedule III controlled substances, as they can be administered by various routes depending on the formulation and indication. However, some Schedule II controlled substances, such as morphine or fentanyl, are administered only by intravenous route for acute pain management.