Related Experiment Videos
Patterns of Chemotherapy Exposure and Adherence to Safety Practices Among Nurses: A Pilot Descriptive Study
Dania M Abu-Alhaija1, Hanan Al-Faraj1, Walaa R Almallah1
1University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, United States.
Journal of Nursing Education and Practice
|July 11, 2026
Summary
Oncology nurses show suboptimal adherence to safe chemotherapy handling practices, with significant exposure risks. Interventions are needed to improve safety protocols and reduce chemotherapy exposure for nurses.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Practice
- Occupational Health
- Chemotherapy Safety
Background:
- Oncology nurses face potential exposure to hazardous chemotherapy agents.
- Adherence to safe handling practices is crucial for protecting healthcare professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate chemotherapy exposure patterns among oncology nurses.
- To assess adherence to safe chemotherapy handling practices.
- To identify areas for improvement in chemotherapy safety protocols.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 123 oncology nurses.
- Surveys collected data on demographics, chemotherapy exposure, and handling practices.
- Data were analyzed to determine exposure routes and adherence rates.
Main Results:
- 18.1% of nurses reported chemotherapy exposure, mainly via skin contact.
- Overall adherence to safe handling guidelines was 54.5%, lowest during preparation (43.5%).
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) varied, with eye and respiratory protection used least.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need for interventions to enhance nurse adherence to chemotherapy safety guidelines.
- Addressing individual and institutional barriers is essential for improving chemotherapy handling practices.
- Further research should explore organizational and individual factors influencing adherence.
Related Concept Videos
01:08Obedience
According to obedience research, we may harm others under the forceful pressures of an authority figure (Milgram, 1974). How about if the inappropriate orders were delivered with less force? The increasing interdependence between nurses and physicians compelled Hofling and his colleagues to explore nurses’ reactions to a potentially harmful medical request made by the perceived authority figure, the doctor (Hofling, Brotzman, Dalrymple, Graves, & Pierce, 1966). In this situation, obedience...
01:23Nurses' Legal Responsibilities II
Establishing a secure, collaborative nurse-patient relationship is crucial for delivering high-quality care. This relationship, founded on trust, respect, and honesty, enhances the patient's comfort and willingness to share vital health information. For example, a nurse who listens actively and without judgment provides clear information about health conditions and treatment options and respects patient decisions, which builds a trusting relationship.
Communication between nurses and patients...
Communication between nurses and patients...
01:27Nursing Ethical Principles II
Ethical principles are essential in guiding nurses to fulfill their responsibilities, focusing on the quality of nursing care and decision-making. These principles, including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and fidelity, shape the ethical framework within healthcare settings.
Consider the following scenario, which illustrates how these principles are applied in the care of Mr. John, a fifty-year-old teacher diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer.
Initially, Mr. John's cancer...
Consider the following scenario, which illustrates how these principles are applied in the care of Mr. John, a fifty-year-old teacher diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer.
Initially, Mr. John's cancer...
01:23Ethical Standards II
Ethical standards are the backbone of nursing practice, guiding nurses as they interact with patients, families, and colleagues. These standards are crucial for providing safe, empathetic care centered on the patient's needs.
Nurses are entrusted with upholding various ethical principles and standards. Nurses forge solid therapeutic relationships using trust, empathy, autonomy, confidentiality, and professional competence.
Confidentiality is crucial, embodying respect for individual privacy and...
Nurses are entrusted with upholding various ethical principles and standards. Nurses forge solid therapeutic relationships using trust, empathy, autonomy, confidentiality, and professional competence.
Confidentiality is crucial, embodying respect for individual privacy and...
01:30Accountability and Responsibility of a Nurse I
Accountability in nursing is a fundamental principle that underscores the obligation of nurses to take responsibility for their actions and answer for any errors or omissions in patient care. This principle is grounded in the professional, legal, and ethical frameworks that shape nursing practice. For instance, nurses must adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and practice standards, including guidelines set forth by nursing boards and professional bodies, to ensure their actions comply...
01:09Accountability and Responsibility of a Nurse II
Professional accountability in nursing is a multifaceted concept that encompasses professional ethics, legal standards, and employment expectations. This framework ensures that nurses maintain and elevate the quality of care while upholding the values of their profession. It compels them to treat patients, families, and colleagues with respect, compassion, and integrity.
For example, a nurse demonstrating respect and compassion might listen attentively to a patient's concerns, provide comfort...
For example, a nurse demonstrating respect and compassion might listen attentively to a patient's concerns, provide comfort...