Safe handling of antineoplastic drugs: Nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices in a Malaysian Tertiary hospital

IntroductionAntineoplastic agents (ANPDs) are mainly used in the treatment of cancer, with known health risks to nurses involved in the handling of these agents. Despite growing awareness, studies continue to reveal incomplete adherence to the handling guidelines and practice. Hence, assessment of nurses' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) is vital. The study aims to identify the level of KAP among nurses at a Tertiary hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia, regarding safe handling of ANPDs.MethodsA cross-sectional survey design was conducted on (n = 120) nurses at Klang Valley, Malaysia, using a random sampling method. The data collection tools were a self-administered questionnaire that consisted of 33 questions from a published study with a Cronbach alpha of 0.7. KAP scores were analysed descriptively, and sociodemographic correlations were analysed using multiple linear regression analysis.ResultsThe findings indicated that 43.3% of nurses demonstrated a good level of knowledge (mean score: 54.78 ± 4.87). Additionally, 54.2% demonstrated a good attitude (33.69 ± 2.90), and 55% exhibited good practice scores (53.09 ± 5.20). A statistically significant positive correlation (P < 0.001) was observed between knowledge and attitudes, as well as between knowledge and practices. However, multivariable regression analysis identified attitude as the significant independent predictor of safe handling practices.ConclusionThe study highlights the need for the establishment of a formal protocol and training for nurses involved in the handling of ANPDs.