What is the two-person rule in handling controlled substances?

• A. One staff member may verify all steps.
• B. A second qualified staff member must verify ordering, dispensing, and administration of controlled substances.
• C. Only pharmacists may verify controlled substances.
• D. A nurse may verify, but not administer.

Answer: (B)

The two-person rule means that controlled substances must be handled with a second qualified staff member involved at key steps—ordering, dispensing, and administering. This creates an essential safety check to prevent errors and deter diversion. In practice, one person validates the details (drug, dose, patient, route, time) and documents the action, while a second qualified staff member independently verifies and witnesses or co-signs the step. This helps ensure the right drug goes to the right patient in the right amount and guards the medication from theft or mishandling. It’s not limited to pharmacists; nursing and pharmacy staff both participate to provide that double-check.