What must be included in the written agreement when prescribing narcotics?

When prescribing narcotics, it is essential to include an acknowledgment of the risks of addiction and dependence in the written agreement. This requirement serves several important purposes. First, it ensures that the patient is fully informed about the potential dangers associated with narcotic use, which can lead to misuse or addiction. By acknowledging these risks, the practitioner promotes shared decision-making and reinforces the importance of adhering to the prescribed dosage and frequency.

Moreover, including this acknowledgment helps protect both the patient and the healthcare provider legally. It demonstrates that the provider has adequately informed the patient about the implications of their treatment choice, fostering a responsible and ethical approach to prescribing controlled substances. This attention to patient education ultimately aims to enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes.

While other components, such as alternative therapies or continuous evaluation plans, may also be important aspects of treatment agreements, the explicit acknowledgment of addiction and dependence risks is a critical requirement that underpins responsible narcotic prescribing.