What is the function of the anteroom as described by ISO standards?

The anteroom serves a crucial role in maintaining the sterility of a controlled environment, particularly in pharmaceutical and healthcare settings. According to ISO standards, an anteroom is designed as a transition area that acts as a barrier between a cleanroom and a non-sterile area. This space helps to prevent contamination by providing a controlled environment where personnel can change into appropriate protective attire, wash hands, and conduct other necessary procedures before entering a sterile area.

By minimizing the potential for outside contaminants to enter the sterile cleanroom, the anteroom is essential in upholding the standards of cleanliness required for compounding sterile preparations, handling medications, and performing any critical tasks that must be done in a controlled environment. This function is a fundamental aspect of maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations in the pharmacy setting.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of the anteroom according to ISO standards. While a waiting area, storage space, or compounding area are important components of a pharmacy, they do not embody the specific transitional and protective role that the anteroom provides.