The application of a freeze-microwave thaw technique to central admixture services

The establishment of a centralized, intravenous solution/admixture drug program in a hospital enhances the quality of patient care. Costs for personnel, equipment, and space have constrained the growth of such a service in the past. A method of preparation for admixture units, which capitalizes on the economics of volume and employs personnel at levels of training consistent with need, is proposed. This technique, utilizing freezing, long-term storage at -20 degrees C, and thawing by exposure in a microwave oven minutes before intended use, surmounts the real and perceived difficulties in many planned or existing admixture programs. A strong element of prospective quality control can be introduced. Where demand is insufficient to justify a separate activity, cooperative arrangements among hospitals will bring all the advantages of central admixture to each. It appears that reductions can be made in the pharmacy hours devoted to admixture. Waste of any unused, reconstituted drugs or prepared units that were not administered may be diminished. Thus, there may be substantial savings for existing admixture programs, if the technique described is adopted. The ultimate form of implementation in each institution, as always, is dependent upon the special "personality" of the hospital.