Question

question 34

which of the following pieces of personal protective equipment (ppe) is a pharmacy technician required to wear while compounding sterile products?

goggles
sterile gloves
face shield
nonabsorbent gown

Explanation:

Identify the core regulatory requirements

Using the USP 797 Regulations and Sterile Compounding knowledge points
USP Chapter <797> outlines the minimum requirements for compounding sterile preparations (CSPs), which includes specific personal protective equipment (PPE) standards to prevent microbial contamination of the cleanroom environment and the compounded products.

Evaluate the required PPE components

Using the Personal Protective Equipment Standards and Garbing Order knowledge points
Under USP <797> guidelines, the mandatory garbing sequence and required PPE for sterile compounding include:

• Dedicated shoe covers
• Head and facial hair covers
• Face mask
• Non-shedding, disposable gown (often described as a nonabsorbent or low-permeability gown)
• Sterile, powder-free gloves (which are applied last and sanitized with 70% sterile isopropyl alcohol)

Analyze the given multiple-choice options

• Goggles: Not universally required for all standard sterile compounding unless handling hazardous drugs (USP <800>) or specifically indicated for splash protection.
• Sterile gloves: Absolutely required for all sterile compounding activities to maintain a sterile field and prevent contamination.
• Face shield: Not a standard requirement for routine sterile compounding unless hazardous materials or high splash risks are present.
• Nonabsorbent gown: While a gown is required, it is typically specified as a low-shedding gown. Comparing "Sterile gloves" and "Nonabsorbent gown," sterile gloves are the absolute, primary barrier requirement directly contacting the sterile compounding area.

Answer:

• Goggles
• Sterile gloves (Correct answer)
• Face shield
• Nonabsorbent gown