CSPT Sterile Compounding Exam practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21Which medication is classified as a high-alert drug requiring special handling procedures during compounding?
✓ Correct answer: D. Concentrated potassium chloride
Concentrated potassium chloride is a high-alert medication that can cause serious harm if administered incorrectly, requiring special labeling and handling procedures during compounding.
Q22What is the primary reason insulin is considered a narrow therapeutic index medication?
✓ Correct answer: C. Small dose changes can cause significant blood glucose alterations
Insulin has a narrow therapeutic index because small changes in dose can result in significant blood glucose fluctuations, potentially causing hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia with serious clinical consequences.
Q23Which factor would require a compounded sterile preparation containing amphotericin B to be stored in a light-protected container?
✓ Correct answer: B. The drug is photosensitive and degrades with light exposure
Amphotericin B is photosensitive and degrades when exposed to light, requiring light-protected containers or amber bags to maintain potency and stability throughout its beyond-use date.
Q24What information found in a Safety Data Sheet is most critical for determining personal protective equipment requirements when compounding hazardous drugs?
✓ Correct answer: A. Hazard classification and risk statements
The hazard classification section of the Safety Data Sheet identifies physical, health, and environmental hazards, which directly determine the type and level of PPE required for safe handling during compounding.
Q25Which base solution is incompatible with phenytoin sodium injection due to precipitation risk?
✓ Correct answer: D. Dextrose 5% in water
Phenytoin sodium is only compatible with normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride). When mixed with dextrose-containing solutions, it precipitates due to decreased pH and reduced solubility.
Q26According to package insert information, what is the maximum recommended concentration for peripheral administration of potassium chloride to minimize vein irritation?
✓ Correct answer: C. 10 mEq per 100 mL
Package inserts typically specify that potassium chloride for peripheral administration should not exceed 10 mEq per 100 mL (or 0.1 mEq/mL) to prevent venous irritation and phlebitis.
Q27Which therapeutic class includes medications that require special containment procedures due to their antineoplastic properties?
✓ Correct answer: B. Chemotherapy agents
Chemotherapy agents are antineoplastic drugs that can cause cellular damage and require special handling with closed system transfer devices, negative pressure techniques, and appropriate PPE to protect personnel.
Q28What type of container closure system should be avoided when compounding paclitaxel due to leaching concerns?
✓ Correct answer: A. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) bags
Paclitaxel contains Cremophor EL, which can leach DEHP (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate) from PVC containers and tubing. Non-DEHP or non-PVC materials such as glass, polyolefin, or DEHP-free bags must be used.
Q29Which side effect is most commonly associated with rapid intravenous administration of vancomycin that requires rate control during compounding calculations?
✓ Correct answer: D. Red man syndrome with flushing and hypotension
Red man syndrome is a histamine-related reaction characterized by flushing, rash, and hypotension that occurs with rapid vancomycin infusion. Package inserts specify infusion times of at least 60 minutes to minimize this risk.
Q30What is the primary contraindication for using lactated Ringer's solution as a diluent for ampicillin sodium?
✓ Correct answer: C. Chemical incompatibility with calcium ions causing degradation
Ampicillin sodium is incompatible with lactated Ringer's solution because the calcium ions in the solution can interact with the beta-lactam ring, leading to degradation and loss of potency.
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