Rhode Island Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence (MPJE) Practice Exam

What should a nurse or caregiver do with a discontinued drug from multi-drug packaging?

1. Repackage for another patient

2. Return it to the pharmacy for destruction

3. Keep it for personal use

4. Discard it in the trash

The correct answer is: Return it to the pharmacy for destruction

A nurse or caregiver should return a discontinued drug from multi-drug packaging to the pharmacy for destruction. This choice is correct because it aligns with proper protocols for medication safety and waste management. Medications that are no longer needed or have been discontinued must be handled with care to prevent misuse or accidental ingestion by unauthorized individuals. Returning the medication to the pharmacy allows for safe and proper disposal, ensuring that the medication is not repackaged or used improperly. This practice helps maintain compliance with regulations governing the handling of pharmaceuticals and minimizes the risk of medication errors or drug diversion. The other options reflect unsafe practices. Repackaging a discontinued drug for another patient poses serious risks, as the medication may not be suitable for the new patient or may have imperfections in packaging. Keeping such medications for personal use is illegal and unsafe, as it could lead to health complications or legal issues. Discarding in the trash is also inappropriate since it could expose others to the medication, increasing the risk of accidental ingestion or environmental harm. Thus, returning the drug to the pharmacy is the most responsible and compliant action.