Inventory Basics Flashcards
How are medications typically organized in a pharmacy?
By category, type, or brand for easy access.
- Stock Organization
Description: Medications are categorized by type, function, or brand to make them easy to locate.
Examples:
Pain relievers in one section (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen).
Allergy meds in another section (e.g., Claritin, Benadryl).
What inventory system ensures older stock is used before new stock?
First-In, First-Out (FIFO).
- First-In, First-Out (FIFO)
Description: Older stock is used first to prevent expiration and waste.
Task: Regularly rotate stock so that newly received items are placed behind older ones.
What must be regularly checked and removed from pharmacy stock?
Expired medications.
- Expiry Checks
Description: Medications have expiration dates that must be checked regularly. Expired items should be removed from shelves.
Task: Perform regular inventory audits to identify and discard expired stock.
What should you do when stock levels for a medication are low?
Place a replenishment order to restock.
- Ordering and Replenishment
Description: Inventory is tracked to ensure products don’t run out. When stock levels are low, new orders are placed.
Task: Monitor stock levels and create restocking requests for critical items.
Why is proper storage important for medications?
To maintain their effectiveness and prevent degradation.
- Storage Conditions
Description: Medications need to be stored properly to maintain effectiveness. Some require refrigeration, while others need to be kept in a cool, dry place.
Examples:
Insulin is stored in the fridge.
Tablets are stored at room temperature.
How are controlled substances managed in a pharmacy?
They are stored securely and require detailed documentation for each transaction.
- Controlled Substances Management
Description: Medications like opioids are classified as controlled substances and have stricter inventory rules. They are stored in secure areas and require extra documentation.
Task: Log each transaction of controlled substances, including dispensing and restocking.
Why are regular inventory audits important?
To ensure records match actual stock and identify discrepancies.
- Inventory Audits
Description: Regular audits are conducted to ensure inventory records match the actual stock.
Task: Compare stock on hand to the inventory system and resolve discrepancies.
What tasks should you perform when receiving new pharmacy stock?
Check for accuracy, damage, and expiry dates before adding items to inventory.
- Receiving Shipments
Description: When new stock arrives, items must be checked for accuracy, damage, and expiry dates before being added to inventory.
Task: Unpack and inspect each delivery to ensure it matches the order.
What types of items need more frequent inventory checks and restocking?
High-demand medications.
- High-Demand Items
Description: Certain medications (e.g., painkillers, cold meds) may sell quickly and require frequent restocking.
Task: Identify high-demand items and monitor their stock levels closely.
How does pharmacy inventory management software help?
It tracks stock levels, expiry dates, and order history.
- Inventory Management Software
Description: Pharmacies use software to track stock levels, expiry dates, and order history.
Task: Update inventory records after each transaction to maintain accuracy.
