Is it true that a practitioner is not required to keep records of controlled substances in schedules II through V that they prescribe or administer in the lawful course of their practice?

In veterinary practice, maintaining accurate records of controlled substances is a vital component of compliance with regulatory standards. It is not accurate to say that a practitioner is not required to keep records for controlled substances in schedules II through V. In fact, practitioners must meticulously document the prescribing or administration of these substances as part of their responsibilities.

Schedules II through V encompass various substances with differing potential for abuse, and regulations mandate thorough documentation to prevent misuse, diversion, and ensure patient safety. For example, Schedule II drugs, which are highly controlled, have stringent record-keeping requirements.

Therefore, the assertion that a practitioner is not required to maintain such records is misleading and does not align with the legal and ethical obligations in veterinary medicine. Record-keeping is an essential practice for accountability and is crucial for ongoing patient care and regulatory compliance.