What must a new Pharmacist In Charge (PIC) do upon taking over responsibility for a pharmacy?

When a new Pharmacist In Charge (PIC) assumes responsibility for a pharmacy, it is crucial to conduct a complete inventory of all controlled substances, which includes Schedule I-V drugs. This requirement is in line with regulatory measures ensuring the accurate oversight of controlled substances, promoting safety, and preventing diversion. Performing this inventory on the day the new PIC takes over provides an immediate and clear understanding of the pharmacy's stock, allowing for better management and accountability.

This step is not only a best practice but also a legal obligation in most jurisdictions. It helps establish a baseline inventory that the new PIC can monitor and manage effectively going forward. Accurate record-keeping from the onset of their tenure is essential for compliance with state and federal regulations regarding controlled substances.

Other actions, such as notifying the Board of Pharmacy or reviewing past inventories, may have their own significance, but they do not represent the immediate and essential responsibilities the PIC must undertake right at the point of transition. A patient survey, while useful for assessing service quality, is not mandated as an immediate action upon taking charge. Thus, the inventory of Schedule I-V drugs is the correct and primary responsibility of a new PIC.