Hand and Glove Sanitizing in Sterile Compounding, Part 1.

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Infection Control
• Microbiology

Background:

• Sterile compounding requires stringent aseptic techniques, including proper hand and glove antisepsis.
• Alcohol-based hand rubs and chlorhexidine gluconate are common biocides used for disinfection.
• Part 1 of this series detailed the mechanisms and application of alcohol-based sanitizers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To guide the selection of appropriate hand and glove sanitizers for sterile compounding.
• To review the necessity and consistent use of sanitizers in aseptic processing.
• To provide information on safe storage and compare features of various sanitizing agents.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on hand and glove sanitizers.
• Comparison of the properties and efficacy of different sanitizing agents (alcohols, chlorhexidine gluconate).
• Analysis of compounders' frequently asked questions regarding sanitizer use.

Main Results:

• Alcohols and chlorhexidine gluconate are effective biocides for hand and glove antisepsis.
• Proper selection and consistent use of sanitizers are vital for maintaining sterility.
• Safe storage considerations and features of various sanitizers are presented.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate selection and judicious use of hand and glove sanitizers are essential in sterile compounding.
• Understanding sanitizer properties aids in optimizing aseptic techniques.
• This article serves as a practical guide for compounders on sanitizer application and safety.