A nurse is preparing to administer a medication to a patient. Which routes should the nurse anticipate as leading to quicker systemic absorption? (Select all that apply.)

A. Determining which medication needs a prescription for the patient to obtain. The DEA does not determine which medications require prescriptions; this is typically under the jurisdiction of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

B. Ensuring the patient taking a medication has an option for generic medications. This role is more aligned with the FDA, which oversees the approval of generic medications. The DEA does not handle generic medication options.

C. Providing specific requirements for the manufacture of generic medications. This is also a role of the FDA, not the DEA. The DEA focuses on controlled substances, not the specifics of generic drug manufacturing.

D. Indicating which medications are controlled substances and enforcing the laws. This accurately describes the role of the DEA. The DEA classifies controlled substances into schedules and enforces the laws related to the handling, prescribing, and dispensing of these drugs.

A. Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a Schedule II drug, indicating it has a high potential for abuse and dependence, despite its accepted medical use for treating ADHD.

B. Cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug because it has a high potential for abuse but also has accepted medical uses, such as in certain surgical procedures as a local anesthetic.

C. Ketamine is classified as a Schedule III drug. It has a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule II substances but is still controlled.

D. Methaqualone is a Schedule I drug, indicating it has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.

E. Hydrocodone, particularly in combination with other substances, is classified as a Schedule II drug due to its high potential for abuse and dependence.