South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

According to PPPA, what must be done with plastic vials after being opened?

1. They must be disposed of immediately

2. Must replace cap and bottle

3. They can be reused without modification

4. They must be cleaned and disinfected before reuse

The correct answer is: Must replace cap and bottle

The correct procedure according to the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) dictates that after a plastic vial has been opened, it should be resealed with its original cap. This requirement is in place to ensure that medication remains securely contained and to maintain child resistance, which is a primary focus of the PPPA. Resealing the vial helps prevent accidental ingestion by children and also protects the integrity of the medication inside. The essence of this regulation is to promote safety and reduce risks associated with medications in households where children might have access. Properly replacing the cap assures that the medication is stored safely and effectively, reducing the likelihood of spills or contamination. The other options do not align with the guidelines set forth by the PPPA. Immediate disposal is not practical or necessary; vials can be reused as long as they are correctly capped. Reusing without modification or without cleaning poses a risk, particularly regarding contamination, so these actions are not compliant with safety standards. Thus, re-capping is the best practice to ensure both safety and compliance with the law.