Dispensing and Compounding Flashcards

What is aseptic technique in sterile compounding?

Answer: A set of procedures to prevent microbial contamination during preparation of sterile products, including laminar flow hoods and sterile gowning

Aseptic technique includes: working in a certified laminar airflow hood (ISO 5), proper garbing (sterile gown, gloves, mask, hair cover), surface disinfection with 70% isopropyl alcohol, first-air principles, sterile supply handling, and environmental monitoring.

What is the beyond-use date (BUD) for a compounded preparation?

Answer: The date after which a compounded preparation should not be used, determined by stability data and USP guidelines

BUD is assigned based on USP guidelines considering: formulation type, container, storage conditions, and available stability data. For non-sterile preparations: generally not more than 180 days or the shortest remaining expiry of ingredients. For sterile preparations: based on USP risk levels.

What are the requirements for handling hazardous drugs during compounding?

Answer: Use a biological safety cabinet, double gloving, protective gown, closed-system transfer devices, and proper waste disposal

Hazardous drug handling (USP , adapted in Saudi hospitals) requires: Class II biological safety cabinet, double chemotherapy gloves, non-permeable gown, eye protection, closed-system transfer devices, designated negative-pressure room, proper waste disposal, and staff health monitoring.

What calculations are commonly required in pharmacy compounding?

Answer: Dilution calculations, concentration conversions, alligation, isotonicity adjustments, and dose-weight calculations

Compounding calculations include: dilution (C1V1=C2V2), concentration conversions (mg/mL, %, w/w), alligation (mixing different concentrations), isotonicity adjustment (NaCl equivalents), pediatric dose calculations (mg/kg), and proportion/ratio calculations.

What quality control measures should be performed on compounded preparations?

Answer: Visual inspection, weight/volume verification, pH testing when applicable, sterility testing for high-risk preparations, and documentation of all results

Quality control includes: visual inspection (clarity, color, particulates), weight/volume verification (within acceptable range), pH testing (for solutions), potency testing (when feasible), sterility and endotoxin testing (for sterile preparations), and complete documentation of all QC results.

What is the role of the pharmacist in IV admixture services?

Answer: Preparing IV medications under aseptic conditions, checking compatibility, calculating concentrations, labeling, and managing workflow

IV admixture services: verify orders (dose, concentration, compatibility), prepare under aseptic conditions in laminar flow hood, check drug-diluent compatibility, calculate infusion rates, apply proper labeling (drug, concentration, BUD, rate), perform final check, and coordinate timely delivery to nursing units.