Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.31306/s.66.3.1
Use of personal protective equipment among nurses and technicians of KBC Zagreb when working with cytostatics
Selma Islamčević
; Klinički bolnički centar Zagreb, Zagreb, Hrvatska
*
Hana Brborović
; Škola narodnog zdravlja "Andrija Štampar", Zagreb, Hrvatska
Bojana Knežević
; Klinički bolnički centar Zagreb, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Milan Milošević
; Škola narodnog zdravlja "Andrija Štampar", Zagreb, Hrvatska
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to present work with cytostatics through the legal framework, the use of personal protective equipment and the practice of nurses at the University Hospital Centre Zagreb (KBC Zagreb). The treatment of malignant diseases is a long and demanding process, the main methods of treatment are: the use of antineoplastic drugs (cytostatics), surgical interventions and radiotherapy. Nurses, along with pharmaceutical workers, are the most exposed group of health workers to cytostatics. According to the definitions of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the quality standards of the European Society of Oncology Pharmacy (ESOP), cytostatics form a group of drugs that are classified as hazardous drugs. Working with cytostatics doesn't mean that the worker will get sick, but due to frequent exposure can lead to damage to cells and/or processes that can result in changes in organism. In order to prevent harmful effects, it is necessary to determine the presence of carcinogenic substances in the workplace and take appropriate protective measures. Prevention and early detection are the most important factors in reducing the frequency and consequences of their effects. During May 2022, a survey was conducted among nurses employed at the hematology and oncology departments of the University Hospital Centre Zagreb. 130 of 210 respondents participated in the survey, which is a response rate of 61.9%. Aims of the research were: to examine what kind of protective equipment nurses use when working with cytostatics and to examine knowledge about safe handling of cytostatics. The obtained results showed that the respondents participate in the education and they are familiar with safe handling of cytostatics. 67% of all respondents use personal protection when working with cytostatics which indicates the need for continuous education and improvement of employees' knowledge.
Keywords
occupational exposure, nurse, cytostatic drugs
Hrčak ID:
321089
URI
Publication date:
2.10.2024.
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