Several days later, the family calls the practical nurse to ask what to do with Mrs. Haliburton's left-over morphine. What should the practical nurse say to them?

Several days later, the family calls the practical nurse to ask what to do with Mrs. Haliburton's left-over morphine. What should the practical nurse say to them?

• A. Take it to your pharmacy.
• B. I will pick it up.
• C. Dispose of it in the biohazard container I left.
• D. Keep it just in case another family member requires morphine.

Answer: (A)

Leftover morphine is a controlled substance, so its disposal must be handled safely and legally. The best approach is to return it to a pharmacy or use a local take‑back program. Pharmacists are equipped to dispose of unused opioids properly, reducing the risk of diversion, accidental overdose, and environmental harm. Telling the family to take it to the pharmacy ensures the medication is processed through the proper channels. Phrases like picking it up yourself, placing it in a biohazard container, or keeping it for another family member don't align with safe practice. They can lead to misuse, improper disposal, or safety risks. If a take‑back option isn’t readily available, the pharmacist can provide the best alternative guidance.

Leftover morphine is a controlled substance, so its disposal must be handled safely and legally. The best approach is to return it to a pharmacy or use a local take‑back program. Pharmacists are equipped to dispose of unused opioids properly, reducing the risk of diversion, accidental overdose, and environmental harm. Telling the family to take it to the pharmacy ensures the medication is processed through the proper channels.

Phrases like picking it up yourself, placing it in a biohazard container, or keeping it for another family member don't align with safe practice. They can lead to misuse, improper disposal, or safety risks. If a take‑back option isn’t readily available, the pharmacist can provide the best alternative guidance.