Hazardous Drug Detection and Removal

Because...

• Antineoplastic agents are harmful to healthy cells and tissues as well as to cancerous cells.
• Pharmacists who prepare these drugs or nurses who may prepare and/or administer them are the two occupational groups who have the highest potential exposure to antineoplastic agents.
• ChemoGLO™ historical data shows that 80-90% of sites tested have at least one area of detectable drug residue on surfaces in preparation and administration areas.
• USP 800 and The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends that employers develop a medical surveillance program to monitor the safety of the employees working with hazardous drugs, including wipe sampling every 6 months.
• This recommendation includes using baseline data and ongoing monitoring of environmental hazards as a way to assess the potential risk of employee exposure to hazardous drugs.
• USP 800 recommends using pre-saturated wipes to decontaminate surface areas.