Introduction to Compounding

• What does lab safety in pharmaceutical compounding refer to?

  A set of practices, protocols, and measures designed to protect personnel, the environment, and the quality of compounded medications.
• Why is proper use of equipment important in lab safety?

  It helps protect lab workers from harm and ensures the quality of compounded medications.
• What can happen if lab safety procedures aren’t followed?

  Accidents like chemical spills, toxic fumes, fires, and needle pricks can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
• How does lab safety protect property?

  By avoiding damage to the lab and surrounding areas, minimizing the risk of costly accidents.
• What is the importance of proper care and use of equipment in lab safety?

  It ensures that equipment functions as intended, reducing wear and extending its lifespan.
• How does lab safety prevent cross-contamination?

  By ensuring instruments are fully cleaned and sterilized to prevent the spread of bacteria and diseases.
• What are the key do's for lab safety for students?

  • Follow instructor's instructions.
  • Wear appropriate safety attire.
  • Report all accidents immediately.
  • Tie up long hair.
  • Know emergency procedures.
  • Keep the lab clean.
  • Wash hands after experiments.
• What are the key don'ts for lab safety for students?

  • Do not enter the lab without an instructor.
  • Do not conduct experiments without permission.
  • Do not wear open-toed shoes.
  • Do not eat or drink in the lab.
  • Do not play or fight in the lab.
  • Do not throw waste into the sink.
  • Do not point test tubes at anyone while heating.
• What is the purpose of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in compounding labs?

  To minimize exposure to hazardous substances and protect personnel and the product.
• What are the types of PPE mentioned for compounding labs?

  Gloves, masks, goggles, and lab coats.
• Why is proper handling of hazardous materials critical for safety?

  It prevents dangerous reactions and protects personnel from exposure.
• What should you do before working with chemicals?

  Always read labels before working with chemicals.
• What should be done in case of a chemical spill?

  Have spill kits readily available and know the procedure for cleaning up spills.
• What is the importance of hygiene in compounding labs?

  To prevent contamination and maintain a sterile environment.
• Why is proper ventilation critical in a compounding lab?

  To ensure harmful vapors, dust, and airborne particles are safely removed from the workspace.
• What is the role of accurate labeling and proper storage of chemicals?

  To prevent confusion, ensure safe handling, and reduce the risk of hazardous incidents.
• What is the significance of maintaining a clean and organized work area?

  It prevents accidents and ensures a safe, efficient workflow.
• Why is safe disposal of chemical and pharmaceutical waste crucial?

  For both lab safety and environmental protection.
• What should domestic waste be disposed of in?

  A standard garbage bin lined with a plastic bag.
• Where should sharps be disposed of?

  In a designated yellow sharps container.

  
• How should biological waste be disposed of?

  In biohazard-labeled biological waste bins.
• What is the proper disposal method for cytotoxic waste?

  In an approved purple cytotoxic bag or container.

  
• What does ethics refer to in a laboratory context?

  A set of moral principles that guide behavior and decision-making.
• What are the key ethical principles in laboratory ethics?

  Honesty and integrity, accountability, respect, and fairness.
• Why is honesty and integrity important in lab ethics?

  To report results truthfully and avoid falsifying data.
• What does accountability in lab ethics entail?

  Taking responsibility for your actions and following lab safety protocols.
• Why is respect and fairness important in laboratory settings?

  To treat colleagues and patients with respect and ensure confidentiality.
• What is the ethical use of resources and equipment in labs?

  Using lab tools correctly, minimizing waste, and giving credit for others' work.
• What are common compounding settings?

  1. Community Pharmacies: Non-sterile compounding for personalized medications.
  2. Hospital Pharmacies: Sterile or non-sterile compounding for patient care.
  3. Galenical Laboratories: Specialize in preparing medicinal products from natural sources.
• What are the location and environmental considerations for compounding facilities?

  The compounding area should be isolated from high-traffic areas and free of chemical contaminants.
• What design and layout requirements are important for compounding facilities?

  The area should be free from dust-collecting overhangs and have well-lit, smooth surfaces.
• Why is temperature and humidity control important in compounding facilities?

  To maintain product integrity.
• What is the use of a balance in compounding equipment?

  For measuring ingredients.
• What is a beaker used for in compounding?

  For rough estimates of liquid volumes and for mixing or heating ingredients.
• What is the purpose of a conical flask in compounding?

  For measuring, mixing, and heating solutions.
• What is the function of a funnel in compounding?

  For transferring liquids and powders.
• What is a graduated cylinder used for?

  For measuring liquids.

  
• What is the use of a hotplate in compounding?

  For melting substances.
• What should the work surface in a compounding area be like?

  It should be impervious, no shedding, free of cracks and crevices, and ideally seamless.
• What is required for hand washing in the compounding area?

  At least one sink should be available near or inside the compounding area.