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Classification, Description, and Prevention of Errors
Compounding errors can be divided into the following categories:
- General Errors,
- Incorrect Ingredients,
- Incorrect Concentration,
- Incorrect Use of Equipment,
- Physicochemical Issues,
- Microbiological Contamination,
- Analytical Testing Issues,
- Microbiological Testing Issues, and
- Miscellaneous Errors.
We will continue to look at errors using the format or subject-headings of "Error Type," "Description," and "Avoiding the Error."
MICROBIOLOGICAL CONTAMINATION
| Error Type |
Description |
Avoiding the Error |
|---|
| Nonsterile contamination |
Bacterial, mold, and fungal growth have been reported in some nonsterile compounded preparations. |
Confirm all equipment and supplies are clean, dry, and properly stored. Confirm preservatives are present and appropriately used or the preparation is self-preserved. If using commercial preserved vehicles, confirm that the vehicle has not been diluted to the point that the preservative effectiveness is no longer present. Clean and rinse the dispensing container to remove any potential microorganisms. |
| Contamination |
Nonsterile prescriptions (injections, ophthalmics, etc.) have been reported and have caused death and injury. |
Maintain strict compliance with local state board of pharmacy sterile compounding regulations and/or all aspects of USP Chapter <797> as applicable. Reported errors have been traced back to noncompliance. Many state boards of pharmacy report lack of compliance during their inspections. Critical review of the SOPs, facility, equipment, chemicals, personnel training and performance, packaging, and quality control and assurance activities should be routinely performed. |
Loyd V. Allen, Jr., PhD, RPh
Editor-in-Chief
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding
Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy Twenty-second edition
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