What additional information is required on a controlled substance prescription from a PA or NP?

The correct answer is that the prescription from a Physician Assistant (PA) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) must include their DEA number. This requirement is essential because only registered individuals with a valid DEA number are authorized to prescribe controlled substances. The DEA number serves as a unique identifier for the prescriber, ensuring that they are licensed to prescribe medications that fall under the Controlled Substances Act.

Requiring the DEA number on the prescription helps pharmacy staff verify the legitimacy of the prescription and the prescriber’s authority, thereby promoting patient safety and compliance with federal regulations. While other pieces of information, such as a state license number or possibly patient identification, may be relevant in certain contexts or states, the specific requirement for the DEA number is critical when it comes to controlled substances.

In Tennessee, co-signatures from a physician are not typically required for controlled substance prescriptions written by PAs and NPs when they are operating under their official scope of practice. Therefore, the emphasis on having the DEA number is key.