Where is viable air sampling most commonly performed?

Viable air sampling is most commonly performed in controlled air environments, such as cleanrooms or sterile compounding areas. These environments are designed to minimize contamination and maintain specific cleanliness levels, which is essential when preparing compounded sterile products.

Controlled air environments allow for monitoring the presence of microbial contaminants in the air, which can compromise the sterility of pharmaceutical preparations. By conducting air sampling in these areas, sterile compounding facilities can ensure that they meet regulatory standards and maintain a safe environment for both the staff and patients.

Sampling in administrative offices, outdoor areas, or pharmacy storage rooms does not provide the same level of control or relevance to the sterile compounding process, as these locations may not adhere to the strict environmental standards necessary for the integrity of sterile preparations. Thus, the focus on controlled air environments emphasizes their critical role in safeguarding the sterility and quality of compounded medications.