For hospitals who prepare emergency tackle boxes (code stroke, post-partum hemorrhage, etc):
1. How do receive used boxes when they are returned to the pharmacy?
2. Do you have a process for cleaning the boxes?
3. What do you do if fluid-filled syringes are found in the box?

We have not had a process in place for accepting boxes and have not routinely cleaned the boxes, however recently we have received boxes with fluid-filled syringes and/or dried blood inside. We placed a box of gloves at the window and directed our staff to put on the gloves before accepting the box and to open the box before the delivery staff person leaves. We are discussing what our process should be in these instances and should we require cleaning of each box before restocking. I would love to hear how others have addressed these situations or processes in place in case these arise. Thank you!

Carol Labadie
Vidant Medical Center
Greenville NC