Intended appearance - both of the following:
(1) The container is intact.
(2) The solution or reconstituted solution is either clear or a uniform suspension.
Findings that may indicate a potential problem:
(1) discoloration of the solution
(2) abnormal bubbling
(3) precipitate on the bottom on the vial that does not resuspend
(4) floating crust of material on the fluid surface
(5) precipitated material deposited on the walls of the vial
(6) clumping of material (flocculation)
(7) defect in the seal of the container
(8) crack in the wall of the container
(9) leakage of contents
Consequences associated any of these problems:
(1) contamination with an infectious agent
(2) degradation of the drug so that it is ineffective
Possible actions:
(1) Inject from a new vial that has the intended appearance.
(2) Check with a pharmacist or read the instructions to see if the findings are an expected finding. If not normal then discard the vial in compliance with regulations.
