No more than how many hours of a patient's medication supply should be available in the patient-care area?

The regulation regarding the maximum amount of a patient's medication supply that should be available in the patient-care area is designed to ensure both effective medication management and patient safety. In many jurisdictions, including Georgia, it's stipulated that no more than 72 hours of a medication supply should be on hand in the patient care area. This allows for timely medication administration while also necessitating prompt review and replenishment of supplies, which can help reduce the risk of medication errors or outdated medications being used.

Maintaining a supply of medication for longer periods can lead to challenges such as inventory management issues or increased potential for stockpiling medications that may no longer be necessary for the patient. It is also a safety measure to ensure that medications are regularly reviewed for appropriateness and that any changes in a patient’s treatment plan are reflected in their medication supply promptly.

Thus, a limit of 72 hours balances the need for sufficient medication availability with the necessity to keep the medication inventory current and safe for patients.