How should the needle bevel be positioned when withdrawing medication from an ampule?

When withdrawing medication from an ampule, it is essential to position the needle bevel correctly to minimize the risk of drawing in air and ensure a smooth withdrawal of the liquid. Positioning the bevel in the corner space of the ampule allows the needle to enter where the greatest volume of the solution is typically found, facilitating an efficient and clean withdrawal.

This positioning also helps in avoiding bubbles that can form when the needle is inserted improperly. Drawing from the corner allows for a better angle and can enhance control over the volume withdrawn, thus maintaining the accuracy of the dosage required for compounding or administration.

In contrast, positioning the bevel in other configurations, such as pointing toward the HEPA filter or horizontally, might introduce issues with air introduction or might not properly access the fluid as effectively as needed, which could affect the quality and quantity of the medication being drawn up. Additionally, placing the bevel in the center might create difficulties in accessing the solution without encountering the glass surface of the ampule, leading to possible contamination or inefficient withdrawal.