What must be done if the expiration date of Narcan is within three months?

The proper course of action when the expiration date of Narcan (naloxone) is within three months is to send it to the operations division for exchange. This procedure is critical in ensuring that all emergency response supplies, including life-saving medications, are effective and safe for use.

The rationale behind this practice lies in the importance of maintaining an up-to-date inventory of medications that responders rely on during emergencies. Narcan is used to reverse opioid overdoses, and having expired or soon-to-expire medication could compromise the effectiveness of treatment in critical situations. By exchanging near-expiry Narcan for fresher stock, the operations division ensures that first responders have access to medications that are within their efficacy dates, thus enhancing patient outcomes during emergencies.

This approach aligns with standard protocols for managing emergency medical supplies, reinforcing safety, accountability, and preparedness among first responders.