For how long must a written record of destruction and inventory of a noncontrolled substance be maintained in a hospital pharmacy?

The correct duration for maintaining a written record of destruction and inventory of a noncontrolled substance in a hospital pharmacy is two years. This aligns with the general legal and regulatory requirements for record-keeping for noncontrolled substances, reflecting the need to ensure accountability and traceability in the handling of medications.

Healthcare facilities, including hospital pharmacies, are required to maintain proper documentation of their medication inventory and any destruction activities in order to comply with state and federal regulations. The two-year retention period strikes a balance by ensuring that enough historical data is available for regulatory review while not imposing an excessive burden on pharmacies to maintain records indefinitely.

It's important to note that different types of records may have varying retention periods based on specific regulations, and controlled substances often have stricter requirements. Therefore, being aware of these distinctions is vital for compliance and the proper functioning of pharmacy operations.