What should be done immediately if a sterile preparation is observed to be contaminated?

In the event a sterile preparation is observed to be contaminated, the immediate and most appropriate action is to discard the contaminated preparation. This is crucial because contamination can pose serious risks to patient safety, including the potential for infections or adverse reactions. By discarding the compromised preparation, you ensure that it does not reach a patient, thereby minimizing the risk of harm.

Maintaining sterility is paramount in compounding practices as outlined in USP 797 guidelines, which emphasize the need for rigorous quality control to protect patient health. Once the contaminated preparation is discarded, appropriate steps can be taken to investigate the cause of contamination and implement corrective measures. This approach prioritizes patient safety above all else.