What does the term 'First in, first out' (FIFO) refer to in pharmacy practice?

The term 'First in, first out' (FIFO) is specifically associated with the method of stock rotation, particularly in pharmacy practice, where it is essential to manage inventory efficiently. This approach ensures that the oldest stock—those medications that were received first and may have the earliest expiration dates—are used before newer stock items. By implementing FIFO, pharmacies can reduce waste, minimize the likelihood of dispensing expired medications to patients, and maintain a more organized and systematic inventory system.

Effective stock rotation is critical to patient safety and pharmacy operations, as it directly affects prescription accuracy and the overall quality of pharmaceutical care. This method is commonly used not only in pharmacies but also in other fields that require careful inventory management, such as grocery stores, to ensure that products are used or sold while they are still at their optimal quality.

The other options, while relevant in their own contexts, do not directly relate to the fundamental concept of FIFO in pharmaceuticals. FIFO specifically addresses inventory management rather than recording medication usage, monitoring patient outcomes, or determining medication dosages. This distinction reinforces the importance of stock rotation in providing effective and safe pharmaceutical care.