Exploring safe practice when handling cytotoxic drugs: findings from survey of UK cancer nurses

Background Cytotoxic drugs, including chemotherapy, potentially pose significant risks to cancer nurses. Therefore, it is important to take measures to protect them from the health effects associated with these drugs. Aim To determine UK cancer nurses’ perceptions and experiences regarding potential exposure to cytotoxic drugs, including their knowledge of hazards, use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and closed system transfer devices (CSTDs), and perceived health effects. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted across the UK, facilitated through the UK Oncology Nursing Society. Descriptive analyses were employed. Results The survey revealed that the PPE predominantly used by respondents when administering cytotoxic drugs were plastic aprons (97%, n=723/747) and either gloves labelled for use with chemotherapy (62%, n=466/747) or other gloves (53%, n=393/747). Around 70% (n=521/747) of respondents had used CSTDs during administration. Perceived health effects associated with handling cytotoxic drugs were reported by 161 respondents. Conclusion This study indicates that most cancer nurses have a high level of knowledge of the hazards of cytotoxic drugs, and that plastic aprons and gloves are the primary protection used against occupational exposure. However, there appear to be variation in their use of CSTDs. Many cancer nurses perceive their health to be compromised due to the handling of cytotoxic drugs. It is recommended that all cancer treatment settings across the UK should implement CSTDs.