If you’re like most medical professionals, you’re always looking for ways to cut costs and improve efficiency in your practice. One way to do both of those things is by extending the shelf life of your vaccines. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 tips that will help you do just that!
Be Sure to Store Your Vaccines at the Right Temperature
Vaccines should always be stored between 2-8 degrees Celsius (35-46 Fahrenheit). Anything outside of that range can damage the vaccine and make it ineffective, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your storage temperatures. For example, a covid vaccine fridge needs to be at a constant temperature of 2-8 degrees Celsius.
Keep Track of Expiration Dates!
It can be easy to forget when vaccines expire or which ones you have yet to use, but keeping an up-to-date list is key if you want your vaccines to last longer. Make sure you check everything regularly and get rid of anything that has expired before administering them.
Rotate Your Stock Often
Once you’ve used all the older vaccines, replace them with fresh ones in order to ensure that your stock is always up-to-date and effective. Rotating your stock also helps you keep an eye on expiration dates since the oldest will be used first.
Don’t Freeze Vaccines
It’s important not to freeze vaccines, no matter how tempting it may seem. Freezing them can damage them and make them ineffective, so don’t do it!
Keep Your Vaccines Away From Heat Sources
Vaccines should never be stored near heat sources or direct sunlight, as this could cause them to degrade prematurely or become unusable. Make sure they are kept in a cool, dry area away from any potential heat sources.
Store Different Types of Vaccines Separately
Vaccines come in different forms and should be stored separately. For example, liquid vaccines need to be kept in a separate refrigerator from solid vaccines. This is important to ensure the effectiveness of the vaccine and to prevent cross-contamination between different types.
Reuse Syringes When Appropriate
Syringes can often be reused if they are cleaned properly, which helps you save money and makes your stock last longer. However, it’s important that this is done safely and according to proper guidelines so as not to risk contamination or the spread of infection.
Make Sure Vaccine Storage Areas Are Cleaned Regularly
Keeping your vaccine storage areas clean is essential for extending the shelf life of your vaccines. Make sure to clean them regularly with soap and water or an alcohol-based disinfectant.
Don’t Store Vaccines in the Original Manufacturer’s Container
Vaccines should be transferred to a different container when they are received in order to extend their shelf life. The original manufacturer’s containers are often made of glass or plastic and can break easily, which could damage the vaccine inside.
Dispose of Used Vaccines Properly
After you’ve administered a vaccine, make sure to dispose of it properly. Used needles and syringes should be placed in a sharps container, and any unused vaccines should be disposed of according to local guidelines. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your vaccines last as long as possible.
By following these 10 tips, you can make sure your vaccines last longer and save you money in the long run. Keeping a close eye on expiration dates, storing them properly, and disposing of them correctly will all help extend their shelf life. Remember to always consult with local guidelines for the most up-to-date information about vaccine storage and disposal.