Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory during the compounding process?

During the compounding process, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for ensuring both the safety of the healthcare worker and the integrity of the compounded sterile preparations. The correct answer includes gloves, gowns, masks, and hair covers, which are all essential components of a comprehensive PPE strategy.

Gloves are necessary to prevent contamination of the sterile compounding environment and to protect the compounding professional from exposure to hazardous materials. Gowns serve to provide a barrier against any potential spills and to keep the compounding professional’s clothing and skin free from contamination.

Masks are important for minimizing the risk of respiratory droplet contamination, as even small particles from a person's breath can pose a risk to the sterile products being prepared. Hair covers help to prevent hair and skin flakes from falling into the compounding area, which could lead to contamination as well.

Collectively, these elements of PPE work together to maintain a sterile environment and protect both the personnel involved in compounding and the patients who will ultimately receive the compounded products. Each component serves a specific purpose in infection control and ensuring compliance with the standards set forth by USP 797, which is designed to safeguard patient safety in sterile compounding.