There are several principles to follow when administering controlled substances to patients with a substance abuse history. O’Brien (2014) recommends to first make certain that one doctor is solely responsible for prescribing all pain medications. Next, the nurse needs to obtain a written consent that identifies the treatment plan, explains the expectations of the healthcare team and the patient, and summarizes the repercussions of excessive drug-use. It is also important to identify the patient’s family or support system to increase compliance. Moreover, only one pharmacy must be used making the pharmacist included in the healthcare team. The type of drug and administration route must be decided next. The oral route is the ideal choice but
