Do medication vials have a preservative in them to prevent contamination?
Most multi-dose medication vials that are intended for several medication administrations have a preservative in them to prevent bacterial growth. Single-use vials do not contain a preservative. The preservative has no effect on viruses. Safe injection practices and appropriate aseptic technique are necessary to prevent bacterial and viral contamination of medication vials that can result in patient infections.
Related Questions
- Is there guidance from WPS Medicare on the reporting of medication that was appropriately discarded from single use vials? Are we required to bill modifier JW with the discarded units?
- Where can I locate additional information on safe medication practices for multi-dose vials?
- Do medication vials have a preservative in them to prevent contamination?
