When administering a narcotic, what is the required action regarding the documentation of medication waste?

When administering a narcotic, the correct action regarding the documentation of medication waste is to require a witness to the waste. This is a critical step to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of controlled substances. In many healthcare facilities, when a narcotic is wasted or not administered, it must be witnessed by another licensed nurse or healthcare professional. Both parties typically sign the waste record to confirm that the waste occurred and to maintain a clear and accurate account of the drug's use and disposal.

This practice enhances the security around controlled substances, as narcotics are highly regulated. Proper documentation helps in adhering to legal and institutional policies and can prevent discrepancies that could arise from improper handling. This level of oversight is specifically necessary for narcotics because of their potential for addiction and abuse, making it important that all actions related to these medications are thoroughly documented and corroborated.

Other choices do not align with standard practices regarding the handling of narcotics. For example, documenting after a specified time or only if requested does not ensure the immediate accountability necessary for managing these substances. Similarly, documenting in a provider's file without a witness does not provide the necessary checks and balances that the witnessing process ensures.