Which inventory system utilizes established stock levels?

The choice of periodic automatic replenishment as the correct answer is based on its core principle of maintaining established stock levels. This inventory system functions by automatically restocking items as they reach a predetermined threshold, ensuring that the inventory is maintained at optimal levels without manual oversight.

This system allows for more efficient inventory management by minimizing the risk of stockouts and overstock situations. The established stock levels determine when and how much inventory is replenished, streamlining operations and allowing personnel to focus on other critical tasks instead of constantly monitoring inventory.

In contrast, other inventory systems do not focus on preset levels to the same extent. Just-in-time inventory emphasizes minimizing stock levels and receiving goods only as they are needed, which can lead to shortages if demand fluctuates unexpectedly. Consignment inventory involves managing goods that are owned by a supplier until they are sold or used, without established levels for replenishment. Lastly, last in, first out is an accounting method used for inventory valuation and does not pertain to stock level management, as it merely dictates the order in which inventory is consumed based on the timing of receipt.

By focusing on established stock levels, periodic automatic replenishment effectively supports steady supply and operational efficiency within the sterile processing environment.