Checking for expired medications and equipment

Purpose: To ensure the accurate and timely disposal of all expired medications and equipment used in the nursing department.

Procedure:
On the first of each month a designee of the nursing department reviews the expiration dates of all prescription and over the counter medications kept in the nursing department or supervisor’s office. At this time any equipment with expiration dates such as blood tubes, needles, urine stix or other laboratory equipment is also checked.

A colored sticker will be placed on any item that will expire prior to the next check. This will bring attention to the item and will be disposed of when it expires.

No expired medication or equipment is kept past the recommended date. All expired medication or equipment is disposed of in the proper manner following policy.

The monthly check is recorded on the attached flow sheet with the signature of the designated staff checking the dates. This flow sheet is kept in an area designated by the head nurse.

Residential Programs:
Lenox Integrative Pharmacy’s pharmacist conducts a check of expiration dates quarterly. This inspection is recorded on the pharmacy checklist and signed by the pharmacist and a member of the nursing department. These documents along with the flow sheets are retained for periodic review by the Nursing Director.

Housatonic Academy:
The Nursing Director conducts a quarterly inspection of medications for expiration dates. This check is recorded on the pharmacy checklist and signed by the Nursing Director. This document along with the flow sheets are retained for any necessary review.