What is the purpose of automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs)?

Automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs) are designed specifically to securely store medications for individual patient care units within a healthcare facility. This functionality enhances the efficiency and safety of medication administration by allowing authorized healthcare professionals to access the medications they need right where they are needed, facilitating timely patient care.

ADCs are equipped with technology that helps manage medications, track usage, and maintain inventory control, thereby minimizing the potential for errors and ensuring that medications are securely stored and easily accessible. This targeted storage allows for specific needs of patient care units, which is essential in a fast-paced hospital environment.

Other options, while they may relate to aspects of medication management, do not capture the primary function of ADCs. Storing all hospital medications would not be practical due to space and accessibility issues. Providing medications at no cost is unrelated to the function of ADCs, as their purpose is about managing medication distribution rather than pricing. Preparing bulk medications is also not a function of ADCs; they focus on individualized dispensing rather than bulk preparation.