National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

Handling medication expiration dates is crucial for ensuring patient safety and maintaining the effectiveness of pharmaceutical products. The correct approach is to remove and dispose of expired medications promptly. Medications that have surpassed their expiration dates may not only lose potency but could also pose health risks if taken.

In a medical setting, it is essential to regularly review the medication supply and ensure that expired items are discarded properly to prevent accidental use. This practice not only promotes safety but also helps maintain an organized and efficient medication management system.

While checking every month for expired medications can be beneficial, the key action is the prompt removal of any expired items once they are identified. Storing medications with others regardless of their expiration dates or marking them for future reference does not actually address the need for safe disposal, which is why promptly addressing expired medications is the best practice.