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[Continuous training program for technicians handling antineoplastic drugs and occupational exposure risk]
Claude Dussart1, Bertrand Favier, Laurence Gilles
1Service de pharmacie, hôpital d'instruction des armées Desgenettes, 108, boulevard Pinel, 69003 Lyon, France. claude.dussart@cesh.org
A continuous training program for technicians preparing antineoplastic agents was established to reduce occupational exposure. This program, validated with pharmacy technicians, effectively assesses and minimizes contamination risks.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy
- Occupational Health
- Drug Safety
Background:
- Preparation of antineoplastic agents poses risks of occupational exposure.
- Regular evaluation and training are crucial for safe handling of cytotoxic drugs.
- Existing training protocols may require enhancement to address specific contamination risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish and validate a continuous training program for technicians preparing antineoplastic agents.
- To assess the effectiveness of the training program in reducing occupational exposure.
- To provide a validated training tool for all healthcare professionals handling cytotoxic drugs.
Main Methods:
- A continuous training program was implemented for pharmacy technicians.
- Technicians prepared simulated liquid cytotoxic drugs using fluorescein solution.
- Surface contamination was detected using ultraviolet light (365 nm) after simulated occupational exposure.
Main Results:
- The training program was successfully tested and validated with pharmacy technicians.
- The simulation method effectively detected surface contamination.
- The program is suitable for physicians, nurses, and pharmacy staff.
Conclusions:
- Continuous training programs are essential for minimizing occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents.
- The developed training program is effective and well-received by participants.
- This program can be adopted by all personnel involved in handling cytotoxic medications to enhance safety.
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