Review of vaccine packaging formats and their key features

Abstract

Aims

To explore the implications for use of the different vaccine packaging options, in terms of sustainability, safety, and nurses' preferences; as well as to elaborate a proposal for main concepts of vaccine packaging that could serve as a user guide for nurses.

Methods

A literature review has been carried out about logistic, ergonomic, and practical aspects of the different vaccine packaging options. The search was performed in PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE databases. Initially, 99 sources were identified, of which 19 articles were included for review.

Review/Results

The findings have been grouped in 4 categories: description of vaccine packaging options, and implications in sustainability, safety, and nurses' preferences in clinical practice.

Conclusions and implications for practice

Nationwide, there are just a few studies addressing logistic, ergonomic, and practical aspects of the different vaccine packaging options. Regarding the review process of packaging formats, a descriptive section within the document has been developed by experts, including a summary chart. There exists knowledge about liquid formulations, in particular, the prefilled-syringe and multi-dose formats. In relation to sustainability, in terms of packaging, cold storage, and transport, among others; we consider that these are main aspects that should be addressed by its contribution to the reduction of environmental impact; given its scarce presence in the current literature.