Managing employee apprehension toward handling cytotoxic drugs

A strategy for dealing with employee apprehension about handling cytotoxic agents without a biological safety cabinet is described. Available evidence in the literature concerning the health risks of handling cytotoxic drugs was reviewed with employees. A committee was appointed to evaluate the institution's needs and current practices for handling cytotoxic agents. Airflow studies were conducted in the pharmacy department's sterile preparation areas, and policies and procedures were developed for use until biological safety cabinets could be installed. Plans were developed for dealing with special situations, such as exemption of certain employees from preparation of cytotoxic drugs or refusal of an employee to prepare these drugs. Managers can substantially reduce employees' apprehension about handling cytotoxic drugs by keeping employees informed about departmental plans, listening to their concerns, and developing procedures for safe handling of these agents.