The Scottish Government

Aseptic dispensing

The preparation of a medicine that is appropriate for issue or administration to a patient, by a method of handling sterile material that employs techniques which minimise the risk of microbial contamination.

Bolus

Administration of a small volume of a solution of a medicine directly into a tissue, organ or vein by manual means using a syringe, as a single dose given over a relatively short period of time.

Hazard

A factor with the potential to cause harm.

High risk

Where the hazard associated with preparation is likely to have serious consequences for the patient or operator.

Infusion

Administration of a large volume of a fluid or solution of a medicine directly into a tissue, organ or vein, by means of gravity or a pump system, given over a relatively long period of time.

Licensed manufacturer

Possessing a licence from the Licensing Authority (the Medicines Control Agency) to operate as a manufacturer of pharmaceutical products.

Low risk

Where the hazard associated with preparation is unlikely to have serious consequences for the patient or operator.

Multi-professional

Doctor, pharmacist and nurse, and any other professional involved in the process.

Near-patient areas

The general area in which the patient is examined, treated and cared for e.g. the ward, the clinic or surgery, the patient's home.

Operator

The person undertaking the preparation.

Parenteral

Administered by injection, infusion or implantation into the body.

Preparation

The manipulation of ingredients and components to make a final product.

Ready-to-administer

Requiring no further dilution or reconstitution, and presented in the final container or device, ready for administration or connection to a needle or giving set, e.g. an infusion in a bag, with no additive required.

Ready-to-use

Requiring no further dilution or reconstitution before it is transferred to the administration device, e.g. a liquid in an ampoule, of the required concentration, that only requires to be drawn up into a syringe. Ready-to-administer injections are also ready-to-use.