NMC OSCE Medicines Management

Question 1

Under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, which schedule requires a controlled drugs register entry for every transaction?

Accepted Answer

Schedule 2

Answer

Schedule 2 controlled drugs (e.g., morphine, diamorphine, oxycodone) require an entry in the Controlled Drugs Register for every administration, dispensing, or destruction. The register must be kept for two years.

Question 2

Two nurses are required for the administration of Schedule 2 controlled drugs. What is the primary purpose of this requirement?

Accepted Answer

To act as an independent check and verify the drug and dose

Answer

The requirement for two nurses to check and administer Schedule 2 controlled drugs is primarily an independent verification process to reduce the risk of errors in drug selection, dose, route, and patient identity.

Question 3

A nurse finds that the count in the controlled drugs cupboard does not match the register. What is the correct immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Report the discrepancy to the person in charge immediately

Answer

Any discrepancy in the controlled drugs balance must be reported immediately to the person in charge and, if unresolved, to the pharmacy and potentially the police. Discrepancies should never be assumed to be recording errors without investigation.

Question 4

Which medication would be classified as a Schedule 2 controlled drug in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Morphine sulfate

Answer

Morphine sulfate is a Schedule 2 controlled drug requiring full CD register entries and double checking for administration. Temazepam and tramadol are Schedule 3 and 3 respectively, while codeine 30mg is Schedule 5 when in low concentrations.

Question 5

According to the 'five rights' of medicine administration, which combination is correct?

Accepted Answer

Right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time

Answer

The five rights of medicines administration are: right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time. These form the core safety check before administering any medication.

NMC OSCE Practice Test

NMC OSCE Practice Test

NMC OSCE Medicines Management