What should be done with an inmate’s medications during processing?

During the processing of an inmate, it is crucial to secure and verify their medications for accuracy. This procedure ensures that all medications the inmate needs are accounted for and confirms that they are receiving the correct dosages and types, which is vital for their health and well-being. Proper verification also helps prevent any potential errors or misuse, as medications can be critical in managing chronic conditions or mental health issues.

Securing the medications allows staff to maintain a controlled environment where the medications can be safely stored and only accessed by authorized personnel. This approach ensures that the inmate's medical needs are addressed appropriately and that any follow-up with medical staff can be efficiently managed.

The other choices do not address the proper handling protocol for inmate medications. Disposing of medications can lead to serious health risks for the inmate, especially if they require those medications for ongoing treatment. Keeping medications with the inmate at all times could lead to mishandling or misuse, and administering medications immediately may not be necessary or appropriate during processing and could violate protocols for verifying the inmate's medical needs.