Nurses play a critical role in managing expired medications within healthcare settings. Here are some steps they should follow:
1. Regular Inventory Checks: Conduct regular checks of medication stocks to identify and remove expired medications. 2. Proper Disposal: Follow the facility’s protocols or local regulations for the safe disposal of expired medications. This often involves specialized disposal bins or returning the medications to the pharmacy. 3. Patient Education: Educate patients about the importance of checking expiration dates and proper disposal methods for their medications at home.