NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes a Compounding Aseptic Containment Isolator (CACI)?

1. A type of PEC for non-HDs

2. A 'glovebox' for HDs

3. A ventilated room for HDs

4. A non-ventilated hood for sterile compounding

The correct answer is: A 'glovebox' for HDs

A Compounding Aseptic Containment Isolator (CACI) is a specialized type of equipment used in pharmaceutical compounding. It is designed to provide a controlled and sterile environment for handling hazardous drugs (HDs). The CACI is a sealed and enclosed space that allows for the manipulation of HDs without risk of exposure to the operator. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not fully describe the purpose of a CACI. Option A refers to a PEC (Primary Engineering Control) which is a broad term used to describe any device used to create a sterile environment. Option C refers to a ventilated room which is not the same as a containment isolator. Option D is incorrect because a non-ventilated hood would not provide adequate containment for HDs. B is the correct answer because a CACI is colloquially referred to as a 'glovebox' due to its design that allows for operators to manipulate HDs through gloves attached to the equipment. This option accurately describes the function of a CACI.