90 questions · 120 min · 65% to pass
Question 1
What is geometric dilution and why is it used in non-sterile compounding?
Answer: Geometric dilution is a technique for combining ingredients in which a small amount of drug is mixed with an equal part of diluent, then progressively larger portions of diluent are added, ensuring uniform distribution of a potent ingredient throughout the final preparation.
Question 2
What is the advantage of using an electronic analytical balance over a Class III torsion balance in compounding?
Answer: An electronic analytical balance provides greater precision (often readable to 0.001 g or less), faster readings, internal calibration functions, and a digital display that reduces human reading errors compared to the manual pointer system of a Class III torsion balance.
Question 3
Why should a mortar and pestle be cleaned thoroughly between preparations of different drug compounds?
Answer: Thorough cleaning between preparations prevents cross-contamination, where residual drug from a previous preparation could be incorporated into the next, potentially causing unintended pharmacological effects, allergic reactions, or dosing errors in patients.
Question 4
What does USP <795> recommend for non-sterile compounding environments?
Answer: Clean, ventilated, monitored area
Question 5
Which personnel qualification is required before a pharmacy technician may compound non-sterile preparations?
Answer: Technicians must demonstrate competency through training in compounding theory and techniques, equipment use, safety procedures, and pass written and practical assessments; ongoing competency evaluations are also required under USP <795> guidelines.
Question 6
What is amber glass best known for protecting against?
Answer: Light degradation of drugs
Question 7
When does USP <795> allow compounding a commercially available drug?
Answer: With documented clinical reason
Question 8
What is an ointment slab used for in compounding?
Answer: Spatulation to blend ointments
Question 9
What is the primary purpose of USP <795> in pharmacy practice?
Answer: USP <795> establishes standards for the preparation, labeling, quality criteria, and beyond-use dating of non-sterile compounded preparations to ensure patient safety and product quality.
Question 10
What is the role of a sweetening agent like sorbitol in a compounded oral liquid?
Answer: Sorbitol serves as a sweetening agent and viscosity-enhancing excipient in oral liquids, improving palatability and mouthfeel; however, it can cause osmotic diarrhea in large quantities, so concentration must be kept appropriate.