PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsHard
A pharmacy technician is preparing a compounded sterile product (CSP) in a Laminar Airflow Workbench (LAFW). Prior to beginning compounding, the technician must thoroughly clean the interior surfaces of the LAFW. Which of the following is the correct sequence for cleaning the LAFW?
- ATop, back, sides, bottom
- BBottom, sides, back, top
- CSides, top, back, bottom
- DBack, top, sides, bottom
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Top, back, sides, bottom
The correct sequence for cleaning a LAFW is from the cleanest area to the dirtiest, to prevent re-contaminating cleaned surfaces. This translates to cleaning the top first (least likely to be directly contaminated), then the back, followed by the sides, and finally the bottom (most likely to have spills or debris).
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Cleaning from bottom to top would push contaminants upwards, re-contaminating cleaned areas.
- C. Starting with sides or back without cleaning the top first can lead to contaminants falling onto cleaned surfaces.
- D. Starting with the back is incorrect; the top should be cleaned first.
LAFW Cleaning Procedure
A specific sequence of cleaning the interior surfaces of a Laminar Airflow Workbench (LAFW) to maintain aseptic conditions and prevent contamination of compounded sterile products.
- Always clean from cleanest to dirtiest areas.
- Top, then back, then sides, then bottom.
- Use appropriate sterile cleaning agents (e.g., sterile 70% isopropyl alcohol).
Memory trick: Keep your 'Clean Air' flowing; 'Clean Top-Down' for 'Sterile Perfection'.