What must a pharmacy ensure when faxing an emergency C11 prescription?

When a pharmacy is faxing an emergency Schedule II (C11) prescription, it is crucial to ensure that the original prescription is provided before dispensing the medication. This requirement exists to mitigate the risks of misuse and to maintain compliance with federal and state regulations that govern controlled substances. In circumstances where a prescription is faxed for emergency purposes, the law stipulates that the pharmacy must receive the signed original prescription from the prescriber within a specified timeframe, typically within 7 days after the faxed prescription was sent. This protocol helps to establish accountability in prescribing practices and ensures that the medication is being dispensed appropriately.

The other options presented do not align with the regulatory standards set for handling Schedule II prescriptions. Not requiring the original prescription, allowing all emergency medications to be faxed without any restrictions, or sending faxes directly to patients would compromise the safety and legality of dispensing controlled substances.