Which legal mandate must be followed when witnessing the waste of a narcotic?

The correct choice pertains to the legal requirements surrounding the handling of narcotics, specifically regarding the accountability and verification of these substances. It is mandated that a verification of the narcotic count at the beginning and end of each shift be conducted. This ensures that any discrepancies in the narcotic inventories can be promptly identified and addressed. Keeping accurate records and conducting regular counts is crucial for maintaining safety, adhering to legal regulations, and preventing diversion. This practice helps safeguard against the potential misuse of narcotics and is a critical component of pharmacy and nursing protocols.

While signatures from two registered nurses are often required to witness the disposal of narcotics, and secure locking is necessary to prevent theft, the specific legal mandate that governs the accountability of narcotics primarily focuses on the necessity to verify the counts regularly. Checking the controlled substance before administration is part of the nursing responsibilities, but does not specifically address the legal mandate regarding waste. Regular verification at the shift's start and end specifically aims to ensure that all narcotics are accounted for, thus reinforcing sound medication management practices.