Which sign might indicate a disruption in medication accountability?

An unexplained discrepancy in counts is a significant indicator of a potential disruption in medication accountability. This means that there is a difference between the expected and actual amounts of medication that cannot be accounted for through normal usage. Such discrepancies could result from various issues, including improper documentation, theft, diversion, or errors in administering medications. Recognizing these discrepancies is crucial for maintaining patient safety and ensuring that medications are managed properly within the healthcare setting.

In contrast, consistent medication logs reflect proper documentation and accountability, frequent compliance checks serve to ensure that protocols are being followed, and regular teamwork discussions promote communication among team members about medication management. These practices are typically associated with effective medication accountability rather than disruption. Therefore, the presence of unexplained discrepancies stands apart as a clear red flag that needs immediate attention.