What is the required airflow for C-PEC and C-SEV during sterile compounding?

The required airflow for Compounding Pharmacy Environments such as C-PEC (Compounding Primary Engineering Controls) and C-SEV (Compounding Secondary Engineering Controls) during sterile compounding is defined in guidelines to ensure a proper sterile environment. The correct answer, which states 30 air changes per hour, aligns with regulations set forth by organizations such as USP (United States Pharmacopeia), specifically in USP Chapter <797> that governs sterile compounding practices.

This airflow rate of 30 air changes per hour is crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of the compounding area. It ensures that the air quality remains high by effectively removing particulates, thus minimizing contamination risks during the preparation of sterile compounds. High air exchange rates are particularly important in environments where drugs are compounded to prevent the buildup of airborne contaminants that could compromise sterility.

This requirement applies to facilities where sterile compounding is performed to protect both the patients receiving the medications and the healthcare professionals involved in the compounding process. The ventilation system should be capable of achieving this airflow consistently, and it must be tightly monitored to comply with safety and quality standards in pharmacy practice.