Final answer:
Even if Ian, a registered nurse, is not a drug abuser, the 1970 Controlled Substances Act is still relevant to him as a healthcare professional. He must follow the act's regulations for the legal use, prescribing, and distribution of controlled substances in his professional duties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 1970 Controlled Substances Act (CSA) is relevant to individuals who work in the healthcare industry, including registered nurses like Ian. The CSA categorizes marijuana and other substances as controlled substances, and it also sets guidelines for the legal use, prescribing, and distribution of these substances. While Ian may not be a drug abuser, he must adhere to these guidelines in his professional role to avoid legal repercussions. For instance, even if a state legalizes marijuana under certain conditions, federal law, as defined by the CSA, may still classify it as illegal. This can impact healthcare professionals who prescribe or administer drugs. Additionally, the risk of diverting drugs for misuse, as in the clinical focus example of a healthcare worker stealing painkillers, underscores the importance of following CSA regulations.