Arizona MPJE (Pharmacy Jurisprudence) Practice Exam

Who is allowed to prepare IV admixtures or compounds in a hospital pharmacy?

1. Only pharmacists

2. Pharmacist, intern, or technician (not a tech trainee)

3. Intern or technician only

4. Pharmacist or technician trainee

The correct answer is: Only pharmacists

The preparation of IV admixtures or compounds in a hospital pharmacy is a highly specialized task that requires knowledge of both sterile compounding techniques and the medications involved. This task is generally reserved for licensed pharmacists, as they have received the extensive education and training necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of these preparations. Pharmacists are responsible for the oversight of all compounding practices within the pharmacy, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, guidelines, and best practices. They play a critical role in verifying the accuracy of doses, understanding drug interactions, and maintaining sterility, which are crucial when preparing IV medications that are administered directly into a patient's bloodstream. While pharmacy interns and technicians can be involved in the process, they must work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. In many regulations, pharmacy technicians are allowed to assist in the preparation of sterile products only if they have received appropriate training and certification. However, the absolute oversight rests with the pharmacist. This delineation of roles helps to maintain a high standard of care and protect patient safety, making it clear why the preparation of these types of compounds is designated primarily for pharmacists.