What is recommended when injecting a needle into a vial or ampule to avoid damaging the seal?

When injecting a needle into a vial or ampule, it is essential to avoid damaging the seal to maintain sterility and integrity of the medication. Using the same point for needle insertion is the recommended practice because it minimizes the number of puncture points on the rubber stopper of a vial. Each time the stopper is punctured, there is a potential risk of introducing contaminants into the vial, as well as compromising the seal which can affect the sterility of the contents.

Maintaining the integrity of the seal is critical in compounding sterile preparations since any damage can lead to contamination or degradation of the sterile drug. By consistently using the same point for insertion, you reduce the risk of multiple punctures that can separate the elastomer from the glass, allowing for the possibility of microbial contamination or moisture exposure. This ensures that the medication remains safe and effective for patient use.