*PR: –  Applicability of MM Standards to Sample Medications[®] [REF:BHC, MD, P&T/Phrm] Perspectives, January 2014, Vol 34, #1, Pg 15  #JCp1401_B1

Although TJC does not endorse the use of sample medications, it has recently clarified which EPs in the Medication Management chapter of standards is considered applicable to such medications.  They include EPs under the following MM standards:
• MM.01.01.01, MM.01.01.03, MM.01.02.01, MM.02.01.01, MM.03.01.01
• MM.03.01.05, MM.04.01.01, MM.05.01.09, MM.05.01.11, MM.05.01.17
• MM.05.01.19, MM.07.01.01, MM.07.01.03, MM.08.01.01
A full listing of the EPs related to the 14 relevant standards are listed in a sidebar on page 15 and in the Pre-Publication version (BHC/HAP)of the update.  Note: If a sample medication were used in an inpatient setting, it would be treated like any other inpatient medication, and as such, applicability of MM standards would not be limited to the 14 referenced above.
Tip: Since TJC made the effort to clarify this issue, expect closer scrutiny of sample medications in BHC organizations. Use our Sample Medication Compliance Checklist to help review/ensure compliance.