Final answer:
Sterile Compounding Facilities must be regularly tested for sterility and air particle count to ensure safety and effectiveness. The frequency of testing depends on factors like regulatory requirements and facility policies, with at least annual testing being common.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sterile Compounding Facilities must be tested for sterility and air particle count on a regular basis to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the compounded medications. The frequency of testing depends on several factors, including regulatory requirements and facility policies. In general, these facilities are typically tested at least annually, and more frequently if required by the regulations or if there are changes in the facility or processes.
For sterility testing, samples of the compounded medications are collected and analyzed for the presence of microorganisms. This is usually done by using special culture media and incubating the samples to allow any potential microorganisms to grow. The cultures are then examined for any growth, which indicates a lack of sterility.
For air particle count testing, specialized instruments are used to measure the number and size of particles in the air within the facility. This is important because high levels of particles can indicate contamination and compromised sterility. The results of air particle count testing can help identify potential sources of contamination and allow for corrective actions to maintain a clean and controlled compounding environment.