Assessing workplace compliance with handling of antineoplastic agents.
Oncology nurses and ancillary support personnel who work in oncology settings are at risk for exposure to antineoplastic drugs in their workplaces. A review of the literature reveals issues of environmental contamination and personal exposure. Although the United States has no formal regulations regarding hazardous drugs, including cytotoxic agents, guidelines have been published and are readily available to improve workplace safety. Oncology healthcare workers must be aware of the serious nature of antineoplastic drug exposure and the avenues available to initiate a simple, highly effective, problem-solving process called SOLVE to make medical workplaces safer.
Gambrell
Jackie
J
Oncology Multidisciplinary Center, Cancer Treatment Center, Greenville Hospital Systems, South Carolina, USA. gambrellj@charter.net
Moore
Susan
S
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000633:toxicity*; D003625:Data Collection; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D019983:Guideline Adherence / Q000592:standards*; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D015386:Hazardous Substances / Q000633:toxicity*; D017744:Medical Waste Disposal / Q000592:standards; D009314:National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, U.S.; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research / Q000458:organization & administration; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016272:Occupational Health; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000592:standards; D011340:Problem Solving; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration; D014481:United States; D014489:United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration; D017132:Workplace
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D015386:Hazardous Substances; D017744:Medical Waste Disposal