1. 10 Steps to Ensure Patient Safety with Enhanced CSP Labeling
   
2. Tips for Cleaning Your Sterile Compounding Areas
   
3. Did You Know...
   
4. Send to a Colleague
   

1. While CSP labeling must meet state board of pharmacy regulations, federal regulations, and applicable USP chapters, consider exceeding these requirements to reduce medication errors.
   
2. Instill the importance of active human observation among all staff during release, picking, dispense, and administration.
   
3. Be proactive: perform a FMEA to determine the points at which an error may occur.

4. On the label, the CSP’s active ingredient, strength, and total volume should be in boldface font and larger than the rest of the label information.
   
5. Review ISMP’s revised (as of 8/07) list of high-alert medications.click here.
   
6. If you have not already deployed tall-man lettering, you should do so now.
   
7. Avoid color-coding medicationsto differentiate drug classes, as this may increase intra-class medication errors.
8. Font colors can be used to draw attention to label items that must be reviewed prior to dispensing. Keep in mind that staff may be color-blind.
   
9. Use auxiliary labels on CSPs with special precautions – especially those identified by ISMP as high alert medications.
   
10. In addition to the immediate container, warning labelsshould also be placed on bins and shelves where these high alert CSPs are stored.
    

1. Avoid conventional cellulose sponge mop heads; while relatively inexpensive, they begin to break down within one week and need to be changed at the first sign of wear.
   
2. Stainless steel mop systems with interchangeable handles and swivel mop heads that use disposable pads or covers specifically designed for ISO Class 5 areas are a good choice.
   
3. Larger lint-free wipes (ie, 12x12 inch vs. 9x9 inch) — although more expensive to purchase — may reduce the number of wipes used during a cleaning cycle, saving money over the long term.
   
4. Pre-moistened wipes, particularly those in dispensers that can be operated with one hand, may promote better technique and labor savings.
   
5. Clearlylabel all cleaning equipmentwith its designated area to prevent cross contamination.
   
6. Your hospital’s OR director is an excellent resource as you develop formal cleaning and disinfecting protocols.

...Visit PP&P's Booth #1218 at the ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting in Las Vegas for aFREE educational posteron Cleanroom Gowning Procedures..

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