What must be avoided to prevent touch contamination during assembly?

To prevent touch contamination during assembly in a sterile compounding environment, it is crucial to avoid contact with critical edges and component surfaces. Critical edges refer to the parts of syringes, vials, and other devices that, if touched, could compromise sterility. Component surfaces include the areas of equipment or materials that are directly involved in the preparation of sterile products.

Touch contamination can introduce microorganisms into sterile products, which can lead to infection or other serious issues for patients. By ensuring that critical edges are not touched, and that surfaces where contaminants could reside are kept sterile, the risk of compromising the integrity of the compound is significantly reduced.

Understanding the importance of maintaining a sterile field and proper aseptic technique is essential for anyone involved in sterile compounding. This awareness helps in safeguarding both the products being prepared and the patients relying on these medications for their health.