This is the text extract for Opening a glass ampoule, browse documents here.

Information sheet

PHARMAC

Tips for opening a glass ampoule

The following information will help you to open correctly a glass ampoule for your medication.

To help keep the ampoule and medicine as sterile as possible, use some sanitiser gel on your hands, or wash your hands thoroughly. To open the ampoule, hold it with both hands, with one thumb against the narrow top section. Hold the bottom of the ampoule firmly while pushing the top section away from you with easy, even pressure. A light pressure should cleanly snap the ampoule open, while using too much force can cause it to shatter.

5 1

Note: no tissue is being used while opening ampoule in this photo so that it is easy to see how to hold the ampoule. We recommend using a tissue/ gauze while opening the ampoule.

A painted band around the narrow neck of the ampoule (the white line) means that the ampoule is ready to open without scoring.

Your medicine should now be ready to be used as directed by your doctor. Use a syringe to draw up the liquid from the ampoule. When you have taken the medicine, discard all the pieces of the ampoule by wrapping in a tissue or paper and discarding. If the glass shatters when you open your ampoule, wrap all the pieces in a tissue and discard. Don’t use the medicine if your ampoule shatters.

2 6

If there is liquid above the white line in the ampoule, gently tap with your finger to get all the liquid to the bottom part of the ampoule.

3

Protect your hands from broken glass by using a paper towel, light cloth or piece of gauze when opening the ampoule.

If you have any questions please talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse, or call: Healthline 0800 611 116 PHARMAC 0800 66 00 50

4