How often should employees wash their hands when compounding non-sterile products?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene before and after compounding non-sterile products. In a pharmacy setting, maintaining proper aseptic techniques is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of the compounded products, as well as to prevent contamination.

Washing hands before compounding minimizes the risk of transferring pathogens to the product or the compounding area. After compounding, washing hands is equally essential to prevent the spread of contaminants that may have come into contact with the compounding process or materials. Regular handwashing at these critical times is part of standard operating procedures in both sterile and non-sterile compounding to promote a safe environment and uphold quality standards in pharmaceutical practice.

Additionally, while other options suggest limited handwashing, frequent and thorough hand hygiene is a fundamental practice in compounding, ensuring the health and safety of both patients and healthcare workers.