Basics of compounding: considerations for implementing United States pharmacopeia chapter 797 pharmaceutical compounding-sterile preparations, part 15: personnel training, cleansing, and garbing.

Proper cleansing techniques must be followed by compounding personnel, the purpose of which is to eliminate microbial residues that could contaminate compounded sterile preparations. Personnel must be highly competent and motivated to perform the aseptic manipulations of compounding sterile preparations, ingredients, and devices without mistake. For personnel to achieve the level of competency and the motivation required for properly compounded sterile preparations, they must be thoroughly trained not only on compounding procedures, but on all aspects of cleansing and garbing. This article discusses the requirements provided within the United States Pharmcopeia concerning personnel training, cleansing, and garbing, as well as a discussion on good compounding practices as they relate to each of these issues.