Safe handling of hazardous drugs: are you protected?
Oncology nurses handle hazardous drugs when they administer medications to patients in inpatient and outpatient settings. Guidelines for the safe handling of hazardous drugs have been in place since the late 1980s; however, confusion still remains about the proper handling of the substances. Institutional policies vary and the use of personal protective equipment is inconsistent. In an effort to provide a safe working environment, nurses should be aware of the potential health risks of handling hazardous drugs and adhere to recommended guidelines to prevent occupational exposure.
Nixon
Susan
S
St. Joseph Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, USA. susannixon@fhshealth.org
Schulmeister
Lisa
L
D004356:Drug Storage; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D015386:Hazardous Substances / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000633:toxicity*; D006801:Humans; D009736:Nursing Process; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016272:Occupational Health; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D011481:Protective Clothing; D014481:United States; D014489:United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration
D015386:Hazardous Substances