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Proper use of multidose vials

Jeannette Y Wick1, Guido R Zanni

  • 1National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.

The Consultant Pharmacist : the Journal of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists
|January 25, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Improper handling of multidose vials (MDVs) leads to drug waste. Reinforcing staff education on proper procedures and the risks of contamination can improve adherence and reduce infections.

Area of Science:

  • Healthcare quality improvement
  • Infection control
  • Pharmacy practice

Background:

  • Multidose vials (MDVs) are frequently found misused or stored improperly during facility inspections.
  • This leads to the unnecessary disposal of expensive medications and biologics.
  • Inappropriate handling poses a risk of contamination and potential patient infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify strategies for improving staff awareness and adherence to proper multidose vial (MDV) handling procedures.
  • To reduce drug waste and prevent healthcare-associated infections.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of common causes for improper MDV handling, including job stress, time constraints, and staffing issues.
  • Identification of specific procedural shortcuts: inadequate hand hygiene, needle/syringe reuse, and failure to decontaminate vial stoppers.
  • Emphasis on reinforcing staff understanding of the consequences of non-adherence.

Main Results:

  • Staff knowledge of proper MDV procedures is likely adequate, but external pressures lead to deviations.
  • Potential contamination from shortcuts is often overlooked due to its "out-of-sight, out-of-mind" nature.
  • Reinforcing the link between procedural errors and increased infection risk is key to improving adherence.

Conclusions:

  • Addressing systemic issues like staffing and time pressure is crucial for improving MDV handling.
  • Consistent education emphasizing the risks of contamination and infection is necessary for policy adherence.
  • Enhanced awareness and adherence to proper MDV handling protocols can minimize drug waste and enhance patient safety.

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