Which document must pharmacists maintain to track controlled substances?

The maintenance of a controlled substances inventory log is critical for pharmacists in order to comply with legal and regulatory requirements. This log serves as a detailed record of all controlled substances managed within the pharmacy, allowing for accurate tracking of the receipt, dispensing, and disposal of these substances. It ensures that pharmacists can demonstrate accountability for the inventory, helping to prevent misuse and ensuring compliance with the stringent regulations that govern controlled substances.

Moreover, the controlled substances inventory log is often required by law as part of a pharmacist's responsibility to monitor and document their stock levels, making sure that they match the purchase records and prescriptions filled. This process helps in identifying any discrepancies, unusual patterns, or potential diversion of these medications.

While other documents like patient medication profiles, prescription order forms, or billing statements may provide useful information or assist in the administration of prescriptions, they do not specifically serve the purpose of tracking the inventory of controlled substances. Hence, the controlled substances inventory log is the essential document needed for this particular function.