Choosing the right medical refrigerator is vital in the conservation and storage of reagents, medication, and biological samples. Medical refrigerators Differ from household refrigerators. Medical refrigerators come in two types: laboratory and pharmacy refrigerators.
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Laboratory Refrigerators
They are mainly used for the conservation of samples and reagents. To minimize the risk of cross-contamination, laboratory refrigerators must maintain a constant temperature. These refrigerators have an inbuilt fan that circulates air inside to keep the temperature at the same level. Additionally, they have separate compartments to prevent cross-contamination. The refrigerators can be used to store vaccines or blood. Specific laboratory refrigerators used to store blood are known as blood bank refrigerators.
Pharmacy Refrigerators
They are medical refrigerators used in storing sensitive medicines and vaccines at optimal conditions. They are reliable in providing cool and stable temperatures. These refrigerators are sensitive hence the door should always be locked or closed to ensure the temperatures inside do not rise especially during summer. Pharmacy medicine refrigerators Should have alarm systems to alert on power failures, sensory failures, and for high and low temperatures.
When choosing a desired pharmacy fridge, various features and options are available in the market depending on the manufacturer and model. They vary in temperature ranges as some incorporate both refrigerator-freezer compartments. Choosing the best equipment for the job is crucial when running experimental tests and the proper storage of samples.
Features to Check on when Buying a Medical Refrigerator
Capacity:
depending on your activity, the storage volume should be able to handle the samples and medicines at ease with no cross-contamination.
Temperature Range:
It is a key consideration depending on the type of medications/vaccines to be stored. Every medicine or product will have a specific temperature for storing to ensure the efficacy and integrity of the medicine. Most refrigerators have a standard temperature range between 2oCand 8oC.
Type and Number of Doors:
A good refrigerator should have at least one to four doors either made from solid or glass material.
Configuration and Size:
Depending on the space available in the pharmacy, you can either go for cabinet type (vertical) or chest type (horizontal) refrigerators. Some refrigerators are compact to fit under counters.
Safety Features of a Refrigerator
Lockable Refrigerator:
A refrigerator should be designed to have lockable doors to limit the access of unauthorized persons to dangerous substances. Also aids in keeping medications at an appropriate cold chain temperature.
Explosion-proof Refrigerator:
Refrigerators store chemicals and flammable products with the risk of explosion. They should be designed to counter such hurdles.
Shielded/lead-linen Refrigerator:
Medical refrigerators should be designed to handle the storage of radioactive materials especially nuclear medicine.
General Factors to Consider Before Buying a Pharmacy Fringe
Energy Consumption:
Consider the running costs of the refrigerator. Understand how much power is required to operate the refrigerator for 24 hours.
Value:
Check for the warranty period provided by the supplier.
Reliability:
Opt for a brand refrigerator that is manufactured with high-quality materials and tested to international standards. Consider if the fringe is Quality Core Pharmacy Program compliant. Check for failure rates to minimize the chances of unexpected breakdowns.
Conclusion
Choosing the wrong pharmacy medical refrigerator can cause temperature fluctuation, machine failure, and unauthorized access into the fringe. Regular pharmacy temperature monitoring ensures the air in the refrigeration is at par with the required range.
