Is the assignment of administrative personnel to handle patient inquiries viewed as acceptable?

The assignment of administrative personnel to handle patient inquiries is generally not viewed as acceptable in the context of sterile compounding practices outlined by USP 797. This guideline emphasizes the critical role of pharmacists, who possess the necessary training and expertise to address patient inquiries effectively.

Pharmacists are not only knowledgeable about the medications and compounding processes but also understand the implications of sterile procedures and patient safety. By having pharmacists handle these inquiries, the integrity of the information provided to patients is maintained, ensuring that all advice is accurate, appropriate, and compliant with safety standards.

Involving non-pharmacist personnel in patient inquiries can lead to misinformation, which could potentially compromise patient safety or therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, maintaining the role of pharmacists in direct communication with patients reinforces the standard of care and the quality assurance principles that underpin USP 797 regulations.