When should a compounded sterile preparation be inspected visually?

Visual inspection of a compounded sterile preparation is essential to ensure its safety and appropriateness for patient use. Inspecting both before and after administration allows healthcare providers to identify any potential issues that may have arisen during preparation, storage, or transport.

Before administration, the inspection checks for any signs of contamination, clarity, particulate matter, precipitation, or discoloration, which could impact patient safety if present. Additionally, inspecting the preparation after labeling ensures that it has retained its integrity and that the labeling accurately reflects the contents and dosage before being administered to the patient. This two-step process is crucial in maintaining a high standard of care and avoiding medication errors or adverse effects.

In contrast, focusing only on one inspection phase neglects critical moments when issues might arise, potentially compromising patient safety. Thus, the practice of inspecting both before and after administration is a comprehensive approach to safeguarding the quality of compounded sterile preparations.