Who is authorized to administer controlled substances?

The option indicating that a nurse, intern, or assistant can administer controlled substances under the direction of a physician is correct because it reflects the scope of practice defined by state laws and regulations. In many jurisdictions, including Minnesota, healthcare practitioners such as nurses and medical assistants are permitted to administer medications, including controlled substances, when they operate under a physician's supervision or within the bounds of their established protocols.

This oversight ensures that while these practitioners can provide necessary patient care, they do so safely and in accordance with established medical directives. It allows for a collaborative approach to patient management, especially in settings where immediate medical assistance is required, enhancing the efficiency of healthcare delivery.

In contrast, other options suggest that only specific professionals can administer these substances, which does not capture the collaborative and hierarchical nature of medical practice. For instance, stating that only licensed physicians are authorized overlooks the important role that supporting medical staff play in patient care, while limiting the ability of qualified personnel to assist in administering treatments. Therefore, the appropriate understanding of who can administer controlled substances encompasses a broader set of healthcare professionals under specific supervisory conditions.