The telephone triage nurse receives a call from a patient asking for a prescription for a narcotic to manage his surgical pain.The nurse explains that narcotic prescriptions must be written and cannot be called in to the pharmacy.The patient says, “Why are narcotics so difficult to get a prescription for?” What is the nurse’s best response?

Choice A rationaleWhile the increase in the number of drug addicts has led to stricter regulations, this is not the primary reason for the difficulty in obtaining narcotic prescriptions.Choice B rationaleControlled substances like narcotics are regulated by the FDA and the DEA to prevent misuse and ensure they are prescribed and dispensed safely and appropriately.Choice C rationaleThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not regulate controlled substances; they focus on public health issues and disease prevention.Choice D rationaleThe Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) does determine the risk for addiction, but it is the FDA that enforces regulations related to controlled substances. .