PTCB Question Walkthrough: Inventory Management

Inventory Management on the PTCB Exam

Inventory management is a core pharmacy technician competency tested on the PTCB certification exam. These questions cover ordering systems, NDC numbers, expiration date management, controlled substance documentation, and return-to-stock procedures. This walkthrough helps you master these practical concepts.

Question 1: NDC Numbers

What does the first segment of an NDC number identify?

• A. The drug strength
• B. The package size
• C. The manufacturer or labeler
• D. The drug dosage form

Correct Answer: C

Explanation: The National Drug Code (NDC) is a unique 10-digit identifier for each drug product. It has three segments: the first segment (4-5 digits) identifies the labeler/manufacturer, the second segment (3-4 digits) identifies the product (drug name, strength, dosage form), and the third segment (1-2 digits) identifies the package size and type. Understanding NDC structure is essential for inventory management and insurance billing.

Question 2: Controlled Substance Ordering

What form is required to order Schedule II controlled substances?

• A. DEA Form 41
• B. DEA Form 106
• C. DEA Form 222
• D. DEA Form 224

Correct Answer: C

Explanation: DEA Form 222 is the official order form for Schedule II controlled substances. It is a triplicate form (or electronic equivalent) that creates a documented chain of custody. Copy 1 goes to the supplier, Copy 2 is retained by the DEA, and Copy 3 is kept by the pharmacy. DEA Form 41 is for destruction of controlled substances, Form 106 is for reporting theft or loss, and Form 224 is for DEA registration.

Question 3: Expiration Date Management

A medication has an expiration date of 10/2025. On what date does this medication officially expire?

• A. October 1, 2025
• B. October 15, 2025
• C. October 31, 2025
• D. November 1, 2025

Correct Answer: C

Explanation: When an expiration date shows only the month and year, the medication is considered good through the last day of that month. So 10/2025 means the medication expires at the end of the day on October 31, 2025. The medication should not be dispensed after this date. Most pharmacies pull medications from shelves 2 to 3 months before expiration to ensure patients receive products with adequate shelf life.

Question 4: Return-to-Stock Procedures

A prescription has been filled but the patient never picked it up after 14 days. What should happen to the medication?

• A. Dispose of it immediately
• B. Return it to stock following pharmacy procedures
• C. Transfer it to another patient with the same prescription
• D. Mail it to the patient's home

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: Unclaimed prescriptions should be returned to stock following the pharmacy's established procedures, typically after a defined waiting period (often 7 to 14 days). The medication is placed back into inventory if it is still within its expiration date and the packaging integrity has been maintained. The insurance claim is reversed, and the prescription is placed on hold for future filling if the patient contacts the pharmacy. Controlled substances require additional documentation when returned to stock.

Inventory Management Tips

• Know the three segments of NDC numbers and what each identifies
• Memorize key DEA forms: 222 (ordering CII), 41 (destruction), 106 (theft/loss)
• Understand FIFO (first in, first out) inventory rotation
• Know return-to-stock policies and controlled substance documentation requirements

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