PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsMedium
A pharmacy technician is preparing a non-sterile compound that requires the use of a geometric dilution technique. This technique is primarily used to ensure which of the following?
- AAccurate measurement of liquid volumes
- BSterility of the final product
- CPrevention of oxidation of ingredients
- DEven distribution of a potent ingredient
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Even distribution of a potent ingredient
Geometric dilution is a compounding technique used when a small amount of a potent ingredient needs to be uniformly mixed into a larger amount of a diluent or base. It involves incrementally adding and mixing the ingredients to ensure even distribution.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Accurate liquid measurement involves pipettes or graduated cylinders, not geometric dilution.
- B. Geometric dilution is for mixing, not ensuring sterility; that's aseptic technique.
- C. Prevention of oxidation uses antioxidants, not geometric dilution.
Geometric Dilution
A compounding technique used to ensure uniform distribution of a small quantity of a potent substance in a larger quantity of a diluent.
- Starts with the smallest quantity ingredient.
- Adds equal amounts of diluent at each step, mixing thoroughly.
- Ensures homogeneity and prevents 'hot spots' of potent drug.
Memory trick: Mix It Right, Mix It Light, for Potent Powders, a Geometric Sight!