Perishable
Perishable
Perishable (/pɛrɪʃəbəl/), derived from the Latin word 'perire' meaning 'to pass away', is a term used in the medical field to describe any substance or material that can deteriorate or decay over time, especially when not stored or handled properly.
Definition
In the context of medicine, perishable items can include certain types of medications, biological samples, and medical supplies that require specific storage conditions to maintain their efficacy and safety.
Related Terms
- Expiration date: The date after which a perishable item is not guaranteed to remain safe or effective.
- Preservation (medicine): The process of treating perishable items to extend their usable life.
- Cold chain: A temperature-controlled supply chain, often used to transport perishable medical items.
- Vaccine: A type of perishable medication that can lose its effectiveness if not stored properly.
Storage of Perishable Items
Perishable medical items must be stored under specific conditions to prevent them from becoming ineffective or unsafe. This often involves maintaining a certain temperature range, known as the cold chain, and ensuring the items are used before their expiration date.
Impact on Healthcare
The perishability of certain medical items can have significant implications for healthcare delivery, particularly in regions with limited access to reliable electricity or refrigeration. This can make it challenging to maintain the cold chain and ensure the safe and effective use of perishable items such as vaccines and certain medications.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Perishable
- Wikipedia's article - Perishable
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