is intended for external use, as many physicians prefer the “For External Use Only” labels. After the prescription is labeled, check the ingredients again by some systematic method to ensure accuracy. As an added precaution and to aid expeditious identification of drugs in case of undesirable effects, note the manufacturer and the lot number of the proprietary drug dispensed on the prescription form (fig. 6-3). This procedure, however, does not apply to medications consisting of a mixture of several ingredients. The initials or the code of the person filling the prescription must also be written on the prescription form (fig. 6-3). FILING PRESCRIPTIONS Prescriptions that have been filled must be maintained in one of several separate files:  Schedule II and III narcotics—Prescriptions containing narcotics are numbered consecutively, preceded by the letter “N,” and filed separately.  Alcohol—These prescriptions are numbered consecutively, preceded by the letter “A,” and filed separately.  Schedule III (nonnarcotic), IV, and V drugs—These prescriptions are part of and are numbered in the same manner as the general files; however, they are maintained separately.  General files—All other prescriptions are numbered consecutively and filed together. Currently, prescriptions are required to be kept on file for at least 2 years after the date of issue. REGULATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES PERTAINING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, ALCOHOL, AND DANGEROUS DRUGS LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Recall Hospital Corpsman responsibilities and accountability pertaining to controlled substances; identify controlled substance schedules; and recall controlled substance security, custody, inventory, and survey procedures. Hospital Corpsmen who handle controlled substances and other drugs are held responsible for the proper distribution and custody of those substances and drugs. Nowhere is the demand for strict integrity more important. Misuse, abuse, loss, and theft of these substances have always, sooner or later, ended in tragedy and severe consequences. No one has ever profited by their misappropriation. It behooves every Hospital Corpsman to thoroughly understand the responsibility concerning the custody and handling of controlled substances and other drugs and to be familiar with the regulations and laws pertaining to them. RESPONSIBILITY Although the MANMED specifically assigns custodial responsibility for controlled substances, alcohol, and dangerous drugs to a commissioned officer (and more specific control to the Nursing Service), you, as a Hospital Corpsman, have the responsibilities of administering and securing them properly. All controlled substances and other drugs are to be kept under lock and key. Neither keys nor drugs should ever be entrusted to a patient. ACCOUNTABILITY Hospital Corps personnel are held accountable for drugs entrusted to them. Great care should be exercised to prevent the loss or unauthorized use of drugs. No drug should be administered without proper authority. In addition, U.S. Navy Regulations forbid the introduction, possession, use, sale, or other transfer of marijuana, narcotic substances, or other controlled substances. 6-24 NAVAL HOSPITAL BETHESDA, MD 20814 (keep out of reach of children) John R. Doe, HM2, USN Take one (1) tablet every 12 hours if needed for cold symptoms. Dimetapp #30 Dr. Johnson No Refills Phone 295-2113 295-550 4/28/99kk 117765 HM3F0605 Figure 6-5.—Prescription label.