What must be maintained in order to prevent contamination during the use of syringes and needles?

Maintaining sterility is crucial in preventing contamination during the use of syringes and needles. This ensures that the substances, especially those intended for injections or infusions, remain free from harmful microorganisms. Sterile techniques involve using appropriate barriers, such as gloves and masks, and working in a clean environment, often under laminar flow hoods, to minimize the risk of introducing pathogens.

While constant pressure may be important in certain contexts, it does not directly address the risk of contamination. Moisture is typically a concern in terms of promoting microbial growth rather than being a protective factor. Lastly, heat is not a relevant factor in this context, as it does not maintain sterility but is often used as a method for sterilization instead. Thus, emphasizing the need for sterility is fundamental in sterile compounding to ensure patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.