Hazardous Drug Handling in Pharmacy Practice

Identifying Hazardous Drugs

Hazardous drugs (HDs) include antineoplastics (chemotherapy), certain antivirals, hormones, and other medications that pose health risks to handlers. The NIOSH publishes a list of hazardous drugs that is updated periodically. Pharmacy personnel must be able to identify HDs and follow appropriate handling procedures.

Exposure to hazardous drugs can occur through skin absorption, inhalation, ingestion, or accidental injection. Even low-level chronic exposure may cause reproductive harm, organ damage, or cancer in healthcare workers.

Safe Handling Procedures

HDs must be received in a designated area, unpacked with appropriate PPE (chemotherapy-rated gloves), and stored separately from non-hazardous medications. During compounding, HDs require a biological safety cabinet or containment isolator with negative pressure and external venting.

Spill kits specific to hazardous drugs must be available in all HD handling areas. Workers exposed to HD spills should follow decontamination procedures and report the exposure through occupational health. HD waste requires special disposal containers.

PTCB Exam Topics

Hazardous drug safety is a key PTCB topic. Study with flashcards and mini exams.