Compounding Using Hazardous Drugs

Author(s):  Lau Kellie

Issue:  Jul/Aug 2000 - Compounding for Hospice and Cancer Patients
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Abstract:  Since antineoplastic drugs are both carcinogenic and mutagenic and target both normal and abnormal cells, long-term and repeated exposure to these and other hazardous drugs can profoundly and negatively affect the body, especially in situations in which the person is not properly protected. The author discusses physicochemical properties, current guidelines, current findings and the new and improved containment system. She concludes that workers must be educated about the short- and long-term consequences of handling these drugs, that they must be trained in using proper techniques when preparing and administering these drugs and that they should consider using the PhaSeal drug-containment system to protect themselves against possible harm from handling hazardous drugs.

Related Keywords: antineoplastic, biological safety cabinet, cancer, carcinogenic, chemotherapy, containment system, cyclophosphamide, cytotoxic, drug-containment, exposure, fluorouracil, hazardous, HEPA filter, ifosfamide , LAF, mutagenic, Occupational Saftey and Health Administration, OSHA, protection, safety, vertical airflow laminar

Related Categories: LEGAL, SUPPORT, NIOSH, HAZARDOUS DRUGS

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