title: How do nurses manage their occupational exposure to cytotoxic drugs? A descriptive survey in chemotherapy settings, Shiraz, Iran.
abstract: Occupational exposure to cytotoxic drugs is a global concern. We conducted this cross-sectional study in 2012 to describe the adverse effects experienced by nurses working in one of chemotherapy facilities affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, southern Iran, and their proper use of personal protective equipment and educational programs. The frequency of side effects reported by participants was noticeably high. Approximately, 60% of the nurses used all personal protective equipment. There were air conditioner ventilation systems in all facilities, but they were not standard. Clinics did not have any dedicated room. Lack of adequate training was noticeable among all participants. We concluded that establishment of safety regulations, health care workers safety surveillance systems as well as continuous training for nurses are of paramount importance.
authors.affiliation: Student Research Center, Department of Community Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Momeni
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Danaei
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Askarian
mesh_terms: D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003603:Cytotoxins / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003625:Data Collection; D004339:Drug Compounding; D005260:Female; D006761:Hospitals; D006801:Humans; D007492:Iran; D008297:Male; D009726:Nurses / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000517:prevention & control; D016522:Oncology Service, Hospital; D011482:Protective Devices / Q000706:statistics & numerical data
chemical_list: D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D003603:Cytotoxins