How should pharmacists handle samples they receive from APRNs?

The appropriate method for handling samples received from Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) is to follow state law guidelines. This is crucial because regulations regarding the distribution and handling of pharmaceutical samples can vary significantly by state, including rules about who can prescribe, dispense, or give out samples, and the documentation required. Pharmacists must ensure they comply with these specific legal requirements to operate within the bounds of the law and to maintain professional standards.

Additionally, following state law helps pharmacists ensure patient safety, supports proper record-keeping, and reinforces the accountability of both the pharmacist and the APRN in the medication distribution process. These guidelines may dictate how samples must be stored, documented, and provided to patients, thereby establishing a clear protocol to prevent misuse or legal issues.

The other options suggest actions that do not align with these regulatory requirements, such as dispensing samples without considering legal frameworks or limiting to certain controlled substances, which may not be a requirement or could be inappropriate depending on the context.