Which of the following describes a pass-through?

A pass-through is best defined as a two-sided interlocked enclosure specifically designed to allow the transfer of materials between two areas while maintaining the integrity of the respective controlled environments. In sterile compounding practices, maintaining aseptic conditions is crucial. The interlocked feature helps prevent cross-contamination by ensuring that one side cannot be accessed while the other side is open, thus preserving the sterile environment.

This design allows for the safe transfer of materials such as medications or supplies into a cleanroom or controlled environment without necessitating a direct person-to-person handoff, which could compromise sterility. Effective pass-throughs help streamline workflows by minimizing the number of personnel entering and exiting sterile areas, thus enhancing compliance with infection control procedures and maintaining high standards of safety and quality in compounding practices.