What items must be included in a written prescription for the prescriber?

The correct choice for what must be included in a written prescription for the prescriber is comprehensive, ensuring that all necessary identifiers and credentials are provided. Including the prescriber's name, address, signature, type of license, and DEA number ensures that the prescription is valid, traceable, and compliant with legal regulations governing controlled substances.

The prescriber’s name and address help in identifying who is prescribing the medication, which is important for record-keeping and accountability. The signature confirms the authenticity of the prescription and validates that it was indeed authorized by the prescriber. Knowing the type of license (such as MD, DO, or NP) clarifies the prescriber’s qualifications and scope of practice, which is crucial when assessing what medications they are legally authorized to prescribe. Lastly, the DEA number is specifically required when prescriptions involve controlled substances, providing a mechanism for monitoring prescribing patterns and ensuring adherence to regulations designed to prevent misuse.

This combination of information not only protects public health by ensuring that prescriptions are legitimate but also facilitates appropriate communication within the healthcare system. Relying on just the name and signature or adding only selective information would undermine these important safeguards and could lead to misuse or misunderstanding of prescriptions, which is why comprehensive detail is essential.