What condition should be maintained to ensure effective use of a Class II BSC for hazardous drug compounding?

To ensure effective use of a Class II Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC) for hazardous drug compounding, maintaining proper airflow and pressure is crucial. Class II BSCs are designed with a ventilated system that provides a sterile work environment by exhausting air in a controlled manner. This design works to prevent airborne contaminants from entering the work area and protects both the compounder and the environment from exposure to hazardous drugs.

Proper airflow is necessary to create a negative pressure within the work zone, which helps contain any hazardous agents that may be released during compounding. Additionally, maintaining the correct pressure differential between the BSC and the surrounding environment is essential for the effectiveness of the cabinet. If airflow and pressure are not optimized, it could lead to compromised sterile conditions and increase the risk of exposure to hazardous substances.

While stable temperature, regular maintenance checks, and keeping surfaces clean are all important factors in a compounding environment, they do not directly relate to the critical airflow and pressure dynamics that define the operational success of a Class II BSC.