Which cleaning product is appropriate for cleaning the horizontal laminar airflow hood?

The appropriate cleaning product for a horizontal laminar airflow hood is antiseptic-free wipes or sterile gauze pads. This choice is correct because the integrity and sterility of the environment inside the laminar airflow hood are crucial for compounding sterile preparations. Antiseptic-free wipes are designed to effectively remove contaminants without introducing any antiseptic agents that could interfere with compounded medications. They provide a sterile and controlled means of cleaning the surfaces in the hood, ensuring that there are no residues that could compromise the sterility of the pharmaceutical products being prepared.

Unlike other options, surgical scrub pads may be too abrasive and may scratch or damage the sensitive surfaces inside the hood. Paper towels, while absorbent, can leave lint or fibers that might contaminate sterile products, and they are typically not designed for use in this controlled environment. Tap water is not suitable because it can introduce bacterial contaminants and is not sterile, which could compromise the integrity of the compounding process. Thus, antiseptic-free wipes or sterile gauze pads are the most effective and safe choice for this critical cleaning task.