How often should temperature logs be monitored in sterile preparation areas?

In sterile preparation areas, it is essential to maintain a controlled environment to ensure the integrity and safety of compounded sterile products. Monitoring temperature is a critical component of this process. According to United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards, particularly USP <797>, temperature logs in sterile compounding areas must be checked at regular intervals to ensure that the area remains within the appropriate temperature range for the storage of pharmaceuticals.

Monitoring the temperature once a day provides sufficient oversight to ensure that any deviations from the required storage conditions are documented and addressed promptly. This frequency balances the need for consistent oversight with practical considerations for personnel workload and operational efficiency.

By checking the temperature daily, pharmacists and technicians can identify and rectify issues more quickly, thus safeguarding the quality and sterility of the compounded products. This requirement also mitigates the risk of compromising patient safety, as maintaining appropriate environmental conditions is crucial for the efficacy of sterile products.