The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 276 No 7390 p254
4 March 2006

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News summary

Scottish intrathecal injection guidance published

Guidance on the safe handling of intrathecal and intraventricular injections (PDF 610K) in Scotland has been produced by the Scottish Executive Health Department. It complements earlier guidance on the safe handling of intrathecal and intraventricular cytotoxics (PDF 440K).

In essence, the guidance says that intrathecal and intraventricular injections must only be prepared and administered by named individuals who have been suitably trained and authorised. Pharmacists can be included on the list of persons authorised to prepare the injections.

In order to prevent errors, intrathecal or intraventricular injections have to be prepared separately, and at different times, from injections for administration by any other route. In addition, they should always be prepared and administered by the same person or prepared by one person and delivered direct to the individual who is to give the injection. Where this is not possible, injections must be placed in a locked cupboard and signed for when removed for use. Again, only authorised people should be involved in the supply chain.