What defines sterile compounding?

The definition of sterile compounding centers around the process of preparing medications that are free from viable microorganisms. This includes the combining, admixing, or altering of drug products to create sterile preparations intended for administration. Such preparations are crucial in treating patients, especially those with compromised immune systems or critical care needs, where the introduction of contaminants could lead to severe infections or complications.

Sterile compounding requires meticulous techniques and environments, such as the use of laminar flow hoods and strict aseptic practices, to ensure that the final product is safe and effective. This encompasses a range of medications, including intravenous (IV) solutions, injections, and other sterile dosage forms where the goal is to maintain sterility throughout the compounding process.

Other options do not define sterile compounding effectively. Proper storage of medications is essential for maintaining their integrity but doesn't involve the actual compounding process itself. Administering medications orally pertains to a different route of delivery and not to the compounding of sterile preparations. Lastly, mixing non-sterile drugs does not meet the requirements for sterile compounding since the focus is on creating preparations that must be free from contamination.