Date
of Last Review 9/5/08
SME: Infection Control Manager
Multiple-use sterile drugs (vials) are examined prior to use for evidence of
physical or chemical contamination and are disposed of in accordance with this
procedure.
Vials that have the following characteristics are considered contaminated and are not to be used:
 | Contain |
 | Particulate matter |
| Precipitates |
| Turbidity |
| Discoloration |
| Mislabeled |
| Show signs that they are unusable |
| Suspected to be contaminated |
Vials may be used up to 28 days after opening. The vial should be initialed and dated when opened and discarded on day 29.
| They contain a preservative |
| Show no evidence of contamination |
Opened vials:
If the manufacturer suggests a shorter date for opened vials, the vial is dated and initialed when opened.
If the manufacturer's product information specifies a shorter date for opened vials, the opened vials are not be used beyond the time specified.
Reconstituted vials:
Multi-use vials which require reconstitution are dated and initialed when first
reconstituted and then are good until the manufacturer's expiration dating according
to the manufacturer's product information or 28 days maximum.
Note: Vials not meeting these specifications are discarded according to "Disposal" below.
Nursing staff labels contaminated or potentially contaminated vials for the Pharmacy to pick up on regular rounds.
The Director of Pharmacy ensures the disposal of these drugs according to policy.
The top of an open vial is swabbed with an alcohol prep prior to each use.
The prescribed amount of medication is drawn up in a sterile needle.
Insulin: Insulin is to be drawn up using a sterile needle to draw up regular insulin, then using good aseptic technique, the needle may be used to draw up other insulin preparations.
The Joint Commission : Surveillance, Prevention, and Control of Infection
If you have questions regarding the content of this site please contact the
Policy and Procedure Committee. If you
experience any technical problems please contact the MIS Department.
