Automated Compounding Devices (ACDs) are increasingly used in sterile compounding to improve accuracy and efficiency. This session will explore how to correctly use ACDs, including switching out source containers, responding to common errors, and ensuring proper calibration. Learn best practices and troubleshooting tips to enhance both safety and productivity in your cleanroom.

1. Describe the core functions of ACDs and their role in improving accuracy and efficiency in sterile compounding.
   
2. Explain proper procedures for switching source containers, calibrating devices, and responding to common ACD errors.
   
3. Apply best practices and troubleshooting strategies to optimize cleanroom workflow and enhance compounding safety.

As more small organizations begin sterile compounding, understanding Immediate Use and Category 1 Compounding is critical. This session breaks down the definitions, key differences, and regulatory requirements for these compounding types when conducted in Segregated Compounding Areas (SCAs). We'll discuss when these practices are appropriate, how to stay compliant, and practical considerations for implementation.

1. Distinguish between Immediate-Use and Category 1 Compounding, including definitions, requirements, and appropriate use cases.
   
2. Explain regulatory expectations for conducting these compounding activities in SCAs.
   
3. Evaluate practical considerations and compliance strategies for implementing Immediate-Use and Category 1 practices in small organizations.

FDA insanitary conditions are important to discuss in both the 503A and 503B spaces. This session examines the most common findings, including microbial contamination risks, poor facility design, and inadequate personnel practices. Attendees will learn how to proactively identify and remediate potential insanitary conditions before they result in regulatory action.

1. Identify the most common insanitary conditions cited by FDA in 503A and 503B compounding settings.
   
2. Explain how facility design, personnel behaviors, and environmental risks contribute to microbial contamination.
   
3. Implement proactive strategies to detect, prevent, and remediate insanitary conditions before they result in regulatory action.

Material transfer is a critical, yet often overlooked, element of sterile compounding operations. This session walks through best practices for managing materials from warehouse receipt to placement into the Primary Engineering Control (PEC). Topics include proper sanitization, staging, pass-through protocols, and minimizing contamination risks while maintaining workflow efficiency.

1. Describe the complete material flow from warehouse receipt to placement inside the PEC in sterile compounding environments
   
2. Apply best practices for sanitization, staging, pass-through use, and contamination prevention during material transfer.
   
3. Evaluate workflow design and transfer protocols to improve both sterility assurance and operational efficiency.

Compliance can often feel like a checklist of rules, but behind every requirement is a safety rationale. This session dives into the "why" behind key compounding regulations, helping pharmacy professionals better understand and internalize the importance of compliance. By grasping the intent behind the standards, attendees can make more informed decisions and foster a culture of safety and accountability.

1. Explain the underlying safety rationales behind key sterile compounding regulations and standards.
   
2. Analyze how understanding the intent of regulations improves decision-making and promotes a culture of safety.
   
3. Apply regulatory “whys” to real-world scenarios to support consistent compliance and reduce risk.

Sterile compounding often involves repetitive motions and static postures, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. This session focuses on ergonomic best practices, stretching techniques, workstation design, and scheduling strategies to reduce repetitive stress injuries in the cleanroom. Attendees will leave with actionable tips to protect themselves and their teams from long-term harm.

1. Identify common ergonomic risks associated with sterile compounding, including repetitive motions and static postures.
   
2. Apply ergonomic principles, workstation optimization, and stretching techniques to reduce musculoskeletal injury risk.
   
3. Develop strategies such as break scheduling and workflow design to promote long-term cleanroom staff health.

One of the most challenging roles of the Designated Person (DP) is managing team members who do not follow established policies. This session covers strategies to engage noncompliant staff, uncover root causes of resistance, and communicate the "why" behind the guidance. Learn communication tools that foster accountability while maintaining team morale and safety culture.

1. Identify common reasons for staff noncompliance and assess root causes behind resistance to established policies.
   
2. Apply communication techniques that improve clarity, accountability, and team engagement in sterile compounding environments.
   
3. Demonstrate strategies for reinforcing safety culture while maintaining morale and supporting staff development.