Storage of medication

• Medications are stored in the pharmacy to the manufacturer’s recommendation or as per government recommendations. All medications are stored in designated areas which are sufficient to ensure proper sanitation, temperature, light, ventilation, moisture control, segregation, and security.
• Proper consideration is also given to the safety of employees as well as patients.
• Drugs are stored in licensed premises or in designated areas of the hospital for patient care purpose.
• Medicines are stored alphabetically in the Pharmacy and according to the FIFO method.
• All drugs storage container/racks are clearly & legibly labelled
• All drugs are stored above the floor level.
• Inventory levels are monitored and directed by the departmental head
• The drug storage area has a 24 hours uninterrupted power supply.
• Drugs requiring cold chain are stored in the refrigerator within the temperature range of 2 to 8 degree C and the rest of the drugs are stored at room temperature between 20 and 25 degree C.
• A list of drugs to be stored in the refrigerator (between 2 to 8ºC) is displayed outside the refrigerator.
• Monitoring of temperature of all refrigerators and recording is done twice a day. The Log is signed by the observing staff.
• Both the compartment temperatures are monitored independently using a digital display. (Thermo hygrometer)
• Drug storage refrigerators will be inspected daily by the nurse/pharmacy staff.
• If the temperature varies outside the normal range the Engineering Department will be notified to fix the refrigerator
• The non-functioning refrigerator will be clearly marked as NOT IN WORKING CONDITION and are not to be used.
• Any major fluctuations/deviations are immediately self-rectified by adjusting the temperature OR is reported to the BME to respond. In such a case, all drugs will be removed & stored in another refrigerator
• If any drug or item requires freezing temperature, such items are stored in the freezer and the list is displayed.
• The medicines are arranged alphabetically on the racks except for Chemotherapy and Cytotoxic drugs, these drugs are stored separately under the direct supervision of Chief Pharmacist.
• Open drug containers are stored separately with clean & clear label.
• Medications are protected from loss or theft.
• External Products disinfectants and drugs for external use are stored separately from internal and injectable medications.
• Storage policy & guidelines are followed at sub-store/ nursing stations also.