When must a CMA perform a double-check for narcotics?

• A. Never
• B. Only when the nurse asks
• C. When counting and administering controlled substances, per facility policy; usually with another licensed staff
• D. After administration

Answer: (C)

Double-checking narcotics is a safety step where two licensed staff verify the exact medication, dose, patient, and the narcotics count before administration. This check happens during counting and just before giving the medication, and it’s done per facility policy, usually with another licensed staff member (often the nurse). This approach catches errors in drug name, amount, or patient and helps prevent wrong-dose or wrong-patient administration, as well as safeguard against diversion.

So, the correct practice isn’t never or only when asked, and it isn’t done after administration. It’s a proactive, policy-driven precaution performed during counting and administration with another licensed staff member.