Extemporaneous compounding in a sample of New Zealand hospitals: a retrospective survey.

Aim: To determine the extent and nature of extemporaneous compounding of liquid preparations in a sample of New Zealand hospitals.

Methods: Retrospective data were collected from eight hospitals known to provide compounding services during the period 1 June 2004 to 31 December 2004; including dosage form, volume, and quantity prepared. Data were collected on site from compounding logbooks and batch sheets.