PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsHard
A pharmacy technician is tasked with preparing a sterile ophthalmic solution. Which of the following is a critical characteristic that must be ensured for this type of compound?
- AMust be administered intramuscularly
- BMust be hypertonic to minimize swelling
- CMust contain a coloring agent for identification
- DMust be isotonic with plasma
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Must be isotonic with plasma
Ophthalmic solutions must be isotonic with the lacrimal fluid (tear fluid) to prevent irritation, discomfort, and cellular damage to the eye. Isotonicity ensures that the solution does not cause water to move into or out of the eye cells, which could lead to swelling or shrinking.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Ophthalmic solutions are for topical eye application, not intramuscular injection.
- B. Hypertonic solutions would draw water out of the eye cells, causing discomfort and damage.
- C. Coloring agents are generally avoided in ophthalmic preparations due to potential irritation and staining, unless specifically formulated for diagnostic purposes.
Ophthalmic Solution Characteristics
Sterile ophthalmic solutions must be isotonic with the eye's lacrimal fluid to prevent irritation and cellular damage, and must also be sterile and free from particulate matter.
- Isotonicity is critical for comfort and safety
- Must be sterile and free of particulates
- pH should be close to physiological eye pH
Memory trick: Ophthalmic Safety Needs Clear, Calm Eyes.