How often should blood collection equipment be checked for expiration?

Regular checks of blood collection equipment for expiration should be conducted according to the facility's specific policies. This ensures that the equipment used for drawing blood is safe and effective, as expired materials can lead to compromised results and safety risks for patients. Facilities establish their own guidelines based on regulatory requirements, manufacturer recommendations, and best practices in the field. This proactive approach helps maintain compliance with health standards and supports patient care quality.

Periodic evaluation, rather than just once a year or every patient visit, allows for flexibility and ensures that equipment is consistently suitable for use. Reliance on "only when needed" does not provide a systematic approach to quality control, which is critical in laboratory and clinical settings.