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Restricted use of open systems for injectable medication

A stage three alert has been issued on the restricted use of open systems for injectable medication. Open systems include gallipots or other types of open container such as moulded plastic procedure trays.

This alert has been issued to stop the use of open systems for injectable medication, with the single exception of where the practice is used for embolisation procedures.

The use of open systems for injectable medication risks harm from one medication being confused with another, and medication intended for injection being confused with other substances, such as skin antiseptics, that are routinely contained in gallipots or other open containers.

Patient safety alerts are shared rapidly with healthcare providers via the Central Alerting System (CAS).

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