What is an indicator of possible drug misuse related to medication counts?

End-of-shift medication count discrepancies serve as a significant indicator of potential drug misuse in the workplace, especially in settings like healthcare and pharmaceuticals where controlled substances are handled. When medication counts do not align at the end of a shift, it raises concerns about the potential unauthorized removal or misappropriation of drugs. This discrepancy can signal that an employee may be using medications improperly or may even be diverting medications for personal use.

Such situations require immediate investigation, as they can impact not just the individual’s health and safety but also that of patients or clients who depend on these medications. Identifying these discrepancies promptly is crucial in maintaining accountability and ensuring the proper use and management of pharmaceutical substances. In contrast, employee turnover, training sessions, and communication among team members, while relevant in other contexts, do not directly indicate an individual’s drug misuse relating to medication handling.