How to Test the Integrity of a Pre-Filled Syringe

Pre-filled syringes are a method of packaging frequently used medications in common doses and dilutions to facilitate ease of use. This method of medication preparation is helpful in emergency situations because drawing up medications is time consuming. A consideration during any medication administration is the integrity of that medication. Pre-filled syringes undergo vigorous quality control procedures to ensure they maintain their integrity throughout the packaging process. As the medication sits on shelves or in ambulances, the medication may be altered by light, heat or damage. There are some methods to employ that ensure the integrity of the syringe and medication remains intact.

Instructions

• 1

  Examine the syringe, looking for cracks or breaks in the surface. The integrity of the syringe will be compromised if there is damage to the syringe.

• 2

  Locate the expiration date on the syringe packaging. Discard out-of-date medications, which can be ineffective or cause adverse reactions.

• 3

  Look at the liquid contained within the pre-filled syringe. If the seal and integrity remain in tact, the medication will appear uncloudy in nature.

• 4

  Remove the protective cap from the end of the syringe. If the cap is chipped or broken, the integrity of the syringe may have been compromised.

• 5

  Hold the syringe straight up so the plunger is pointed toward the ground. Press the syringe gently until you feel a slight "pop" and a few drops of medication are expelled from the syringe. The popping sensation is the breaking of the vacuum seal. If there is no "pop," the seal may already have been broken and the medication is therefore unusable.