Rhode Island Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence (MPJE) Practice Exam

When compounding only low and medium risk CSPs, how often must media fills be done?

1. Every 3 months

2. At least annually

3. Every 6 months

4. Biannually

The correct answer is: At least annually

When compounding low and medium risk sterile compounding preparations (CSPs), media fills must be conducted at least annually to ensure the aseptic technique and the integrity of the compounding process. This requirement reflects the need for periodic evaluation of compounding practices to demonstrate that the personnel involved can maintain sterility and minimize contamination risks during the compounding process. Annual media fills allow for the assessment of the competency of pharmacy staff, especially considering that compounding practices may evolve over time and new staff may be introduced. These media fills help confirm that basic aseptic techniques are consistently followed and that any potential issues with contamination can be identified and addressed promptly. Options suggesting more frequent media fills, such as every 3 months or every 6 months, may align with the more stringent standards applied to high-risk CSPs, but those are not necessary for low and medium risk environments, which are less likely to introduce contamination during compounding due to simpler processes and materials used. Biannual suggestions, while closer, still exceed the minimum established frequency needed for low and medium risk compounding. Thus, annually remains the standard for this practice.