An inventory of patient valuables is conducted

• A. Annually
• B. Monthly
• C. Quarterly
• D. Daily

Answer: (B)

Regular safeguarding of patient valuables relies on periodic inventories. Conducting the inventory on a monthly basis provides timely detection of any losses or discrepancies while keeping the process manageable for staff. Daily checks would be impractical and disruptive; quarterly or annual checks are too infrequent to deter or catch losses promptly. In many facilities, an initial inventory is done on admission and then a monthly follow-up inventory is performed to maintain accountability. The inventory typically lists item descriptions, approximate values, and requires patient or designee acknowledgment to create a clear, auditable record.