6. MENIMBANG, MEMBUNGKUS DAN MENGISI KAPSUL

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of weighing, packaging, and filling capsules in a pharmacy setting. It covers essential tools, techniques, and best practices for accurately measuring and preparing pharmaceutical ingredients. Whether you are a pharmacy student or a practitioner, these skills are vital for ensuring medication safety and efficacy.

Step 1: Understanding Types of Scales

• Learn about different types of scales used in pharmacies:
  • Gram Scales: Used for measuring larger quantities.
  • Milligram Scales: Used for precise measurements, especially for smaller quantities.
• Familiarize yourself with the features and accuracy of each scale type to choose the right one for your tasks.

Step 2: Familiarizing with Scale Components

• Identify the main parts of a scale:
  • Platform: Where the item to be weighed is placed.
  • Display: Shows the weight measurement.
  • Calibration weights: Used to ensure the scale is accurate.
• Regularly check and maintain these components for reliable measurements.

Step 3: Calibrating the Scale

• Before use, calibrate the scale:
  1. Turn on the scale and allow it to warm up.
  2. Place calibration weights on the platform.
  3. Adjust the scale settings to ensure it reads correctly.
• Regular calibration ensures accuracy and prevents dosing errors.

Step 4: Weighing Pharmaceutical Ingredients

• Follow these steps to weigh your materials:
  1. Turn on the scale.
  2. Place a clean container or paper on the platform.
  3. Zero the scale (tare) to exclude the container's weight.
  4. Add the pharmaceutical ingredient until the desired weight is reached.
• Ensure that you are working in a clean environment to avoid contamination.

Step 5: Preparing Parchment Paper

• To create a parchment package for your ingredients:
  1. Cut a piece of parchment paper to the desired size.
  2. Fold the paper neatly for easy handling.
• This step is crucial for protecting the ingredients during storage or transport.

Step 6: Wrapping the Parchment

• Wrap the parchment around the measured ingredients:
  1. Place the weighed ingredient in the center of the parchment.
  2. Fold the sides of the parchment over the ingredients.
  3. Ensure a tight seal to prevent spillage.
• Proper wrapping is essential for maintaining ingredient integrity.

Step 7: Using Sealing Puyer

• To enhance the packaging, use a sealing puyer:
  1. Position the wrapped ingredient into the sealing machine.
  2. Activate the machine to seal the edges securely.
• This method is efficient and provides an airtight seal.

Step 8: Filling Capsules with Capsule Board

• For filling capsules using a capsule board:
  1. Place the empty capsules into the designated slots on the board.
  2. Use a spatula to fill each capsule with the measured powder.
  3. Cover the filled capsules with the other half and press to close.
• This method ensures uniform filling and minimizes waste.

Step 9: Manual Capsule Filling

• If you prefer manual filling:
  1. Take an empty capsule and hold it upright.
  2. Use a small scoop or spatula to fill it with the powder.
  3. Carefully press the capsule halves together to seal.
• Manual filling can be more time-consuming but allows for precision and control.

Conclusion

This tutorial covered the essential steps for weighing, packaging, and filling capsules in a pharmacy setting. By understanding the tools and techniques involved, you can enhance your preparation skills and ensure the quality of pharmaceutical products. Practice these methods to improve efficiency and accuracy in your pharmacy work.