True or false: You must break an ampule at the neck to access its contents and use a filter needle/straw to remove solutions from ampules.

Breaking the neck of an ampule is indeed the correct method to access its contents. Ampules are designed to be hermetically sealed containers that protect sterile solutions, and the glass neck needs to be snapped off to open the ampule. This process allows for the sterile solution inside to be accessed.

Once the ampule is broken, using a filter needle or a filter straw is essential for drawing the solution into a syringe. The primary purpose of using a filter is to prevent any glass particles that may occur during the breaking of the ampule from entering the syringe and, ultimately, the patient. Filter needles are specifically designed to trap these particulates, ensuring that only the intended solution is drawn up for use in compounding or administration.

It's important to note that this practice enhances safety for both the patient and the environment, as it minimizes the risk of contamination and ensures the integrity of the compounded preparation.