When verifying a prescriber's DEA number, which part should the technician multiply by two?

When verifying a prescriber's DEA number, the correct process involves utilizing the specific digits of the DEA number to determine its validity. The sum of the second, fourth, and sixth digits is multiplied by two as part of the verification calculation. This step is critical because the validity of a DEA number is confirmed through a final check digit that results from a particular calculation involving all the digits of the DEA number.

In the process, the technician first sums the first, third, and fifth digits and then sums the second, fourth, and sixth digits, with the second sum being multiplied by two. After this, you add both results together and find the last digit of this sum. If this last digit matches the final digit of the DEA number, it confirms that the number is valid.

Understanding this method is essential for pharmacy technicians, as DEA numbers are used to track the prescribing of controlled substances and ensuring their accuracy is imperative for legal compliance and patient safety.