Rx Note

Introduction Unlike outpatient pharmacies, inpatient pharmacies also handle injectable medications. Ampoules are typically single-use containers; once opened, they cannot be resealed, and any remaining medication must be discarded. In contrast, reconstituted powdered drugs can sometimes be stored for a limited time, depending on their chemical and physical stability, which varies between brands. To reduce costs, a reconstituted vial is ideally used for multiple doses. For example, a 1 g vial could provide three 300 mg doses. Below are stability data for common IV vial preparations, including those that are reconstituted. Unless stated otherwise, the stability information refers to the product after reconstitution. For simplicity, this discussion excludes ampoule injections and the stability of reconstituted injections after dilution in various diluents (e.g., normal saline or 5% dextrose). Antimicrobials Acyclovir 250 mg Injection Vacrax - Discard any unused reconstituted solution. Wh...

Introduction Much of the public's perception of a pharmacist's role is shaped by their interactions in the ward and at outpatient or community pharmacies. However, a significant number of dedicated pharmacists work diligently in inpatient settings, ensuring accurate medication dispensing to hospitalized patients. Daily tasks often involve managing medication stock (through floor stock supply and filling medication trolleys ) and providing patient counselling, especially in wards without dedicated clinical pharmacists. Transition From Outpatient Pharmacy Having transitioned from outpatient to inpatient pharmacy, I personally prefer the latter due to reduced patient-related stress, such as dealing with aggressive patients and dispensing at crowded, noisy counters. Unlike outpatient settings with strict waiting time policies and crowded waiting areas, inpatient pharmacy work seems more flexible, but remains demanding. When staff are absent or in meetings, we still need to comple...

Introduction Aseptic technique is a skill in the compounding of sterile preparations that is independent of equipment [e.g. primary engineering control (PEC) and secondary engineering controls (i.e. cleanroom) ] and environment. Proper use of Laminar Airflow Workbench (LAFW) An LAFW should operate continuously when in use. Before use, all interior working surfaces of the LAFW must be cleaned from the cleanest part of the LAFW to dirtiest part with sterile 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or another disinfecting agent and a clean, nonshedding, lint-free wipe. The LAFW should be cleaned and disinfected frequently, including at the beginning of the wok shift, before the start of each batch, every 30 minutes during continuous compounding periods, when there are spills, and when there is known or suspected contamination from a lapse in the aseptic technique process. Nothing should touch the HEPA filter. Nothing should disrupt or block the unidirectional airflow between the high-efficiency pa...