HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

What is one recommended maintenance step for an office emergency kit?

1. Check for adequate supplies

2. Update expired drugs

3. Replenish first aid items

4. Inspect the temperature of stored items

The correct answer is: Update expired drugs

Updating expired drugs is indeed a crucial maintenance step for an office emergency kit. Medications have expiration dates for a reason; beyond those dates, they may lose potency or become unsafe for use. Regularly reviewing and replacing expired medications ensures that the emergency kit is equipped with effective and safe supplies, which is essential during a medical emergency when time is of the essence. Checking for adequate supplies is also key for preparedness, but it does not specifically address the potential risks associated with expired medications. Replenishing first aid items is important too, but it is more about ensuring items are available rather than ensuring they are safe and effective. Inspecting the temperature of stored items is relevant for certain medications but does not directly address the status of expiration, which can affect safety and efficacy. Thus, updating expired drugs directly focuses on the integrity of the medication essential for managing emergencies in a dental office.