Why are expiration dates important for medical supplies?

Expiration dates are crucial for medical supplies primarily because they ensure that products remain safe and effective throughout their intended shelf life. Products, especially those used in healthcare settings, can degrade over time due to various factors such as exposure to light, heat, humidity, and air. An expiration date signifies the end of the period during which a product is guaranteed by the manufacturer to maintain its quality, efficacy, and safety. Using items past their expiration date can result in compromised treatment outcomes or potential harm to patients.

While other choices may touch on aspects related to healthcare, they do not directly address the core concern of product integrity and patient safety. For instance, while expiration dates may indirectly affect marketing or logistics, these are not the primary reasons for their existence. The primary concern should always focus on ensuring that medical supplies are reliable and safe for use in patient care.