12VAC5-31-520: Storage and security of drugs and related supplies

A. An area used for storage of drugs and administration devices and a drug kit used on an EMS vehicle shall comply with requirements established by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy and the applicable drug manufacturer's recommendations for climate-controlled storage.

B. Drugs and drug kits shall be maintained within their expiration date at all times.

C. Drugs and drug kits shall be removed from vehicles and stored in a properly maintained and locked secure area when the vehicle is not in use unless the ambient temperature of the vehicle's interior drug storage compartment is maintained within the climate requirements specified in this section.

D. An EMS agency shall notify the Office of EMS in writing of any diversion of (i.e., loss or theft) or tampering with any controlled substances, drug delivery devices, or other regulated medical devices from an agency facility or vehicle. Notification shall be made within 15 days of the discovery of the occurrence.

E. An EMS agency shall protect EMS vehicle contents from climate extremes.