Aseptic Technique and Garbing Flashcards

According to USP Chapter , which of the following items is prohibited in the ante-area and buffer area to minimize particle shedding and potential contamination?

Answer: Artificial nails

USP explicitly prohibits artificial nails, nail polish, and cosmetics because they can harbor microorganisms and shed particles, posing a significant contamination risk to compounded sterile preparations. While some jewelry may be prohibited based on facility policy, the standards specifically call out these items.

A Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician is garbing to work in a non-hazardous cleanroom. Which of the following represents the correct sequence for donning personal protective equipment (PPE) in the ante-area?

Answer: Shoe covers, head/beard covers, face mask, hand washing

The proper garbing sequence generally proceeds from the dirtiest to the cleanest activities to prevent contamination. Shoe covers are applied first, followed by head/beard covers and a face mask. After these items are on, thorough hand hygiene is performed before moving to the buffer area to don a gown and sterile gloves.

During aseptic manipulation inside a primary engineering control (PEC), how should sterile gloves be managed to maintain sterility?

Answer: Routinely disinfected with sterile 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and inspected for tears

USP requires that sterile gloves be routinely disinfected with sterile 70% IPA before entering the PEC and periodically throughout the compounding process. Personnel must also visually inspect gloves for any holes or tears and replace them immediately if compromised.

A technician is preparing to compound a sterile product. After completing hand washing but before donning sterile gloves, what is the required next step according to proper aseptic technique?

Answer: Apply an alcohol-based hand rub and allow hands to dry completely

After performing hand and forearm washing for at least 30 seconds and drying with low-lint towels, personnel must apply a suitable alcohol-based hand rub and allow it to dry completely before donning sterile gloves. This step provides an additional layer of sanitization.

Which of the following actions constitutes a break in aseptic technique while working within a laminar airflow workbench (LAFW)?

Answer: Talking or coughing directly towards critical sites

Talking, coughing, or sneezing can generate a significant number of particles and microorganisms. Directing this activity toward critical sites (e.g., vial stoppers, syringe tips) inside the PEC bypasses the protection of the HEPA-filtered 'first air' and can lead to contamination. All other listed actions are correct procedures.

A technician notices their gown has become visibly soiled while compounding. What is the appropriate course of action according to garbing standards?

Answer: Exit the compounding area immediately and replace the compromised garb

If any piece of required garb becomes visibly soiled or its integrity is compromised, it must be replaced immediately. Continuing to work with soiled garb poses an unacceptable risk of contaminating the environment and the compounded sterile preparations.