Weight-based accuracy of parenteral nutrient solutions prepared with an automated compounder

The accuracy of an automated compounder in preparing parenteral nutrient solutions was evaluated. A total of 480 1-, 2-, and 3--L solutions representing 68 different formulations, some containing electrolytes, were prepared with two Automix devices. The actual weight of the final product was compared with the calculated weight of all ingredients plus the weight of the empty final container. The weight of each ingredient was calculated by multiplying the specific gravity by the volume. A solution was considered acceptable if it weight 95% to 105% of the estimated weight. Only two bags were outside the acceptable range. The mean weight as a percentage of estimated weight for all bags was 100.07 +/- 1.26%. Of the 480 nutrient solutions prepared by an automated compounder, 478 were within 5% of their expected final weight.