Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

When reconstituting a powder with a diluent, how should the mixture be handled?

1. Shake it vigorously to ensure proper mixing.

2. Gently swirl the powder and diluent.

3. Let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes.

4. Use a magnet to mix the contents.

The correct answer is: Gently swirl the powder and diluent.

When reconstituting a powder with a diluent, gently swirling the mixture is the correct approach. This method ensures that the powder dissolves properly without creating excessive bubbles or foam that might occur from vigorous shaking. Gentle swirling promotes even mixing while minimizing the risk of denaturing sensitive components or compromising the integrity of the solution. In many cases, especially with pharmaceutical preparations, the active ingredients can be delicate and easily disrupted by forceful agitation. By using a gentle motion, you facilitate the dissolution process while maintaining the stability of the mixture. In contrast, shaking vigorously could lead to a suboptimal mixture and potential damage to the formulation. Allowing the mixture to sit undisturbed may result in incomplete dissolution, and using a magnet is not a standard practice in this context and may not achieve the desired effectiveness in mixing powders.