Which policy governs disposal of waste from controlled substances at participating hospitals?

• A. DEA policy
• B. Hospital policy only
• C. FDA policy
• D. OSHA policy

Answer: (B)

In hospitals, the procedures for disposing of waste from controlled substances are defined by the hospital’s own policy and procedures. This policy translates federal requirements into concrete steps for staff—who may authorize disposal, how the waste is stored and tracked, how destruction is carried out, and how records are documented—so the process is standardized across the facility. While federal regulations from the DEA establish the legal framework for handling controlled substances, the day-to-day disposal details are implemented through the hospital’s policy to ensure consistent practice and compliance. FDA policies deal with drug safety and labeling, not the disposal workflow, and OSHA focuses on worker safety practices rather than the specific procedural governance of waste disposal.