Microbial contamination and labelling of self-prepared, multi-dose phenylephrine solutions used at a teaching hospital

Background: Common practice at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) is to use boluses from a self-prepared, multi-dose phenylephrine solution to treat spinal anaesthesia-induced hypotension in patients undergoing a Caesarean section. The aims of this study were to determine if there was microbial contamination of the solutions and to evaluate whether healthcare workers adhered to appropriate labelling and aspiration practices.Methods: A sample was collected and the labelling data were documented from the solutions found in the two obstetric theatres at CHBAH over a three-month period. The samples were sent to a laboratory for microbial investigation.Results: Microbial contamination was identified in 6.4% of samples collected. The name of the solution was indicated on 100% of the containers and the concentration of the solution was on 96.4%. The date the solution was prepared was indicated on 74.6% of containers and the time the solution was prepared was on 57.3%. Only 8.2% of healthcare workers who prepared the solution confirmed it by placing a signature on the container. Labelling data were written directly on 100% of the containers and a spikedevice was used in 64.5% of the containers.Conclusions: This study demonstrated microbial contamination of the solution and may indicate an infection hazard. Healthcare workers also did not adhere to appropriate labelling and aspiration practices. This is important for all patients from a patient safety perspective and the need to improve quality of care.Keywords: contamination, microbial, multi-dose, phenylephrine, self-prepared solution