What elements must be confirmed to match a medication order?

To ensure the accuracy and safety of a medication order, it is crucial to confirm that the compounded sterile preparation (CSP) aligns with the labeling. This involves verifying that the details on the label correspond exactly to the medication being prepared, which includes checking the drug name, strength, dosage form, and any necessary instructions for administration or storage.

Proper labeling is essential in sterile compounding because it serves as a direct identifier of the medication and provides important information to healthcare providers who will administer the medication to patients. Discrepancies between the CSP and the label could lead to inappropriate dosing or administration errors, posing significant risks to patient safety. Hence, this element is a vital component of the verification process in pharmacy practice.

While other elements such as expiration dates, packaging, and components are important for ensuring overall quality and safety, the direct correspondence between the compounded medication and its labeling stands out as a critical checkpoint to prevent medication errors. This alignment directly impacts the integrity of medication delivery to patients.