What are the guidelines for night cabinets in hospital pharmacies?

The guidelines for night cabinets in hospital pharmacies specify that they are primarily designed to hold prepackaged drugs. This requirement is based on safety and efficiency standards in healthcare settings. Prepackaged drugs are already reviewed and verified for dosage and labeling accuracy, which helps in minimizing the risk of medication errors during night shifts when pharmacists may be less available for consultation.

By using prepackaged medications, hospitals can ensure that nurses and other authorized personnel can access essential medications quickly and safely, particularly in emergency situations when time is critical. This also helps maintain regulatory compliance, as it ensures that all stocked medications have been properly prepared and labeled according to hospital protocols.

Other options that allow for a broader range of medications or only non-prescription drugs do not align with the established guidelines for night cabinets, which prioritize safety and accuracy in medication administration.