JFHMS Quality Assurance Practice Exam

Which statement about health products inventory management is incorrect?

1. Use newer products first

2. Store products at proper temperatures

3. Track expiration dates regularly

4. Rotate stock to prevent waste

The correct answer is: Use newer products first

The choice stating that newer products should be used first is incorrect because best practices in inventory management in the context of health products emphasize using the older stock first. This approach is often referred to as "FIFO," which stands for "First In, First Out." By utilizing older products before newer items, you can significantly reduce the risk of items expiring or becoming obsolete, thereby minimizing waste and maintaining the quality of the inventory. On the other hand, storing products at proper temperatures, tracking expiration dates regularly, and rotating stock to prevent waste are all essential practices that ensure the safety, efficacy, and reliability of health products. Proper temperature management helps maintain product integrity; regularly tracking expiration dates ensures that expired items aren't used; and rotating stock helps guarantee that the oldest stock is used first, further reinforcing the principle of FIFO. Such strategies collectively contribute to effective inventory management and uphold quality standards in healthcare settings.