What is the significance of using a "closed system transfer device" (CSTD)?

The significance of using a closed system transfer device (CSTD) primarily revolves around minimizing the risk of exposure to hazardous drugs and contamination. CSTDs are designed to prevent the escape of hazardous substances into the environment during the preparation and administration of medications, particularly oncology drugs or other hazardous compounds.

These devices effectively reduce the potential for harmful exposure to healthcare workers and patients by creating a sealed pathway for transfer. This reduces the risk of inhalation, dermal contact, and environmental contamination, fostering a safer workplace for pharmacists and healthcare practitioners who handle hazardous drugs.

In addition to protecting individuals, CSTDs also help to maintain the integrity of the medication by minimizing the potential for contamination from the external environment. This adherence to safe handling practices is critical in sterile compounding to ensure both patient safety and the proper functioning of the prepared formulations. Therefore, the role of CSTDs in enhancing safety and preventing contamination is paramount in the context of compounding practices.