What type of inventory is performed when a new pharmacist takes over?

When a new pharmacist takes over a pharmacy, an initial inventory is conducted to assess the current stock of medications and supplies. This process is crucial as it provides a comprehensive overview of what is available, helps identify any discrepancies, and allows the new pharmacist to establish accurate records from the beginning of their tenure. It serves as a baseline for future inventory practices and ensures compliance with regulatory standards, as keeping accurate inventory records is essential for pharmacy operations.

The initial inventory is particularly important for managing controlled substances, as it assists in compliance with laws and regulations governing their storage and distribution. By having a clear understanding of what exists in the pharmacy at the time of their takeover, the pharmacist can make informed decisions about stock management, ordering, and potential changes to formulary.

In contrast, random inventories are typically unstructured and may not provide a complete overview, ongoing inventories are continuous processes rather than a one-time assessment, and periodic inventories occur at set intervals rather than at the point of transition. These other options do not fulfill the same purpose as an initial inventory in this context.