Which of the following statements is true regarding prescription records for controlled substances?

Prescription records for controlled substances must be kept for a minimum of two years according to federal regulations, and this requirement is also upheld in North Carolina. This retention period ensures that there is a verifiable record of all controlled substance prescriptions written and dispensed, which is vital for monitoring patient safety, preventing drug abuse, and facilitating law enforcement investigations if needed.

The other options present incorrect or misleading information. For instance, while certain records may have different destruction timelines, controlled substance records cannot be destroyed after one year; they must remain accessible for at least two years. The assertion that they are not required to be maintained is inaccurate, as regulation mandates strict record-keeping for accountability and safety. Lastly, while electronic record-keeping is permitted, it is subject to stringent regulations to protect the integrity and privacy of those records, meaning they cannot be kept without any restrictions. Therefore, the requirement for a minimum two-year retention of prescription records is essential for compliance with both state and federal laws governing controlled substances.