Which detail is unnecessary when recording information for dispensing controlled substances?

When recording information for dispensing controlled substances, the date of birth of the patient is typically considered unnecessary. This is because the essential information required for a controlled substance prescription generally includes key identifying details about the patient, such as their name and address, along with crucial details about the prescribing practitioner, including their name and DEA number, to validate the prescription and ensure compliance with federal and state laws.

Recording the patient's address is important to confirm their identity and for potential tracking of controlled substance dispensation. Similarly, the name of the prescribing practitioner is vital to validate that the medication prescribed is authorized and to maintain proper records. The DEA number of the prescribing practitioner is necessary to ensure that the practitioner is licensed to prescribe controlled substances, which is a requirement under both federal and state regulations.

In contrast, while the date of birth can be useful in some contexts to distinguish between individuals with the same name, it is not as critical for the legal and regulatory requirements associated with controlled substance dispensing. Thus, it is often considered non-essential when recording information for dispensing controlled substances.