What is considered the most common source of microbial contamination in compounded sterile preparations (CSPs)?

The most common source of microbial contamination in compounded sterile preparations (CSPs) is poor handwashing. In the context of aseptic technique, hand hygiene is crucial in controlling microbial contamination when preparing CSPs. Effective handwashing helps to remove pathogens from the skin, which is one of the primary reservoirs for bacteria. If handwashing is inadequate, microorganisms can easily transfer to sterile products during preparation, leading to potential patient infections.

Improper storage temperature, defective equipment, and expired medications can indeed compromise the integrity and effectiveness of compounded sterile preparations, but they are not typically the main cause of microbial contamination. While these factors are significant in terms of overall product quality and safety, the direct transmission of microorganisms during the compounding process primarily stems from inadequate hand hygiene practices. This reinforces the importance of strict adherence to proper handwashing protocols as part of aseptic technique in the preparation of CSPs.