How should dispensing records of narcotics be filed?

Dispensing records of narcotics should be filed in order of date and prescription or transaction number to ensure accurate tracking, retrieval, and auditing of these important records. This method aligns with regulatory requirements and best practices for maintaining records of controlled substances. By organizing files in this manner, pharmacies can efficiently access specific records related to a particular prescription and verify the dispensing history, which is critical for both patient safety and compliance with legal standards.

Filing records in alphabetical order or chronologically by patient name could complicate the retrieval process, as it does not directly link records to specific transactions or the order of dispensing. While a digital database system can enhance efficiency and ensure compliance through automated tracking and reporting, it does not replace the fundamental requirement for filing records based on date and Rx/Tx number to maintain a clear and systematic paper trail.