Which of the following is a responsible step before prescribing a controlled substance?

Conducting a physical exam before prescribing a controlled substance is essential as it establishes a comprehensive understanding of the patient's medical condition. A physical exam allows the podiatrist to gather important clinical information about the patient's foot and lower limb health, assess any presenting symptoms objectively, and evaluate potential underlying conditions that could be contributing to the patient's pain or discomfort. This step ensures that the prescription is appropriate and tailored to the patient's specific needs while also adhering to legal and ethical guidelines for prescribing controlled substances.

In addition, proper documentation and thorough patient evaluation can help in monitoring the patient’s response to the treatment plan and guide any necessary adjustments. This, in turn, contributes to the overall safety of prescribing practices and minimizes the risk of misuse or dependence on controlled substances.