Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 91%

Using aseptic technique, which of the following steps must a pharmacy technician take when withdrawing medication from a multiple-dose vial?

Rationale

Remove an equal amount of air for the volume of fluid to be withdrawn.

This step is crucial in maintaining aseptic technique and preventing contamination when withdrawing medication from a multiple-dose vial. By removing an equal amount of air, the technician ensures that the pressure remains balanced within the vial, which facilitates the smooth withdrawal of the medication and minimizes the risk of introducing contaminants.

A (Swab the rubber stopper with sterile water.) YOUR ANSWER

While it is essential to clean the rubber stopper to prevent contamination, using sterile water is not the standard practice. Typically, a sterile alcohol swab is used for this purpose, as alcohol effectively kills a wider range of microbes and ensures that the surface is properly disinfected before accessing the vial.

B (Insert the needle into the rubber stopper with the bevel end up.) YOUR ANSWER

Inserting the needle with the bevel end up is a common practice to prevent coring the rubber stopper, but it is not the most critical step in ensuring aseptic technique. The primary focus should be on removing air equal to the volume of fluid to be withdrawn to maintain pressure balance and aseptic conditions.

C (Tap the needle to remove air bubbles.) YOUR ANSWER

Tapping the needle to remove air bubbles is a technique used to ensure that the correct dosage is withdrawn, but it does not directly contribute to aseptic technique when accessing a multiple-dose vial. The priority should be on the proper technique of air removal to avoid contamination and ensure accuracy in dosage.

Conclusion

Maintaining aseptic technique is paramount when withdrawing medication from a multiple-dose vial. The critical step of removing an equal amount of air for the volume of fluid withdrawn prevents pressure imbalances and contamination, ensuring safe and effective medication handling. Other steps, while important, serve more specific purposes and do not replace the necessity of this fundamental practice.

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