Compounding Basics
What is the purpose of a mortar and pestle in compounding?
A mortar and pestle are used to grind, mix, and reduce the particle size of ingredients, which helps create a uniform, smooth product.
When should you wash your hands during compounding?
You should wash your hands before starting any compounding process, after handling any potential contaminants, and before touching any ingredients or equipment.
What should you do if a powder clumps during mixing?
If a powder clumps, you can triturate it with a mortar and pestle or use a spatula to break up the clumps. Additionally, you may use a wetting agent to help disperse the powder.
What basic information must be on every compounded medication label?
The label should include the patient's name, the medication name and strength, directions for use, the compounding date, an expiration date, storage instructions, and any applicable warnings.
A document from the manufacturer on safe storage and handling required by OSHA for hazardous materials
SDS or MSDS
Name three common non-sterile dosage forms.
Creams, ointments, and suspensions are three common non-sterile dosage forms.
Why is it important to label compounded products immediately after preparation?
Immediate labeling prevents confusion with other products, ensures accurate identification, and provides critical information for safe use by the patient.
What should you do if the tablets do not grind as well into a fine powder?
You may use a sifter to sift the powder and continue to triturate in the mortar and pestle.
Why is documentation like a compound record important in compounding?
Documentation provides a record of the compounding process, ensuring traceability, accountability, and consistency. It also allows for review in case of an adverse event or quality control audit.
Tools used to triturate tablets into fine powders
Mortar and Pestle
Describe the process for making a suspension.
To make a suspension, first finely grind the active ingredient to reduce particle size. Next, disperse it in a small amount of vehicle, add a wetting agent if needed to prevent clumping, and then gradually add the remaining vehicle while stirring to ensure uniform distribution of particles.
List three potential hazards of improperly compounded medications.
Improperly compounded medications can result in incorrect dosage (overdose or underdose), contamination leading to infections, and physical or chemical incompatibility that could make the medication ineffective or harmful.
If an ointment appears too thick, how can you adjust it?
To adjust an ointment that is too thick, add a compatible base or liquid component in small amounts, gradually incorporating it until the desired consistency is achieved.
Describe how to document any changes to a compounding formula.
Any changes should be recorded in the compounding record, detailing the modification, reason for the change, who authorized it, and any observed impact on the final product. This includes alterations to ingredients, amounts, methods, or storage instructions.
Used to protect the digital or two pan balance from damage when weighing materials
weighing paper or weigh boat