What is one major risk when proper hand hygiene is not observed in sterile compounding?

In sterile compounding, observing proper hand hygiene is crucial to maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring product safety. When hand hygiene protocols are not followed, it significantly increases the risk of contamination. Contaminants, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, can be introduced to sterile products, posing serious health risks to patients. These microorganisms may lead to infections or complications, especially in vulnerable patient populations, such as those with compromised immune systems.

Effective hand hygiene reduces the likelihood of such contaminants. The process includes thorough hand washing and the use of appropriate hand sanitizers before interacting with sterile materials, which helps ensure that the integrity of the compounded sterile preparations is maintained. Failing to emphasize hand hygiene can lead to dire consequences in patient care, making it imperative to adhere strictly to these practices to safeguard patient health.