How dangerous is taking care of a patient on Hydrea while pregnant?

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Specializes in Ortho, CMSRN.

I'm currently pregnant. I'm not assigned chemo patients, but am assigned sickle cell patients without a second thought. One day, I realized that maybe I shouldn't be messing with the hydrea (hydroxyurea), so I had someone else open it for me and dump it in the patient's cup. I didn't think twice until I got home about emptying the frequently piling up urinals (sickle cell patient's are on a LOT of fluid). How dangerous is this really? I was assigned a sickle cell patient the next week. I didn't put up a fuss and I took the assignment, but I explained to the patient and the tech that I would not be emptying the urinals or drawing blood, etc. They seemed understanding. Am I over-reacting or not going far enough? This is probably my last chance at becoming pregnant and it took years for it to happen and I certainly don't want to do anything to endanger the life or health of my child. Thanks!

Added: Hydroxyurea is a known teratogen and is known to be exceptionally dangerous if taking it while pregnant. I just don't know how safe it is to take care of patients on it, or if I should speak up. Urine spills, vomiting, etc... tend to happen on the job, but I don't want to be known as a whiner or for demanding special treatment.

More info on the drug:

Hydroxyurea Use During Pregnancy | Drugs.com

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

I don't know the answer, but have you asked your pharmacy and EOHW about it?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Three to consult:

1. Hospital pharmacist

2. Occupational/employee health

3. Your obstetrician.

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Specializes in ER, PCU, UCC, Observation medicine.

I think you're overlooking the actual situation. Hydrea crosses the plancenta, meaning you have to ingest it to actually harm your baby. Sure I guess wearing gloves while you're dispensing the medication will psychologically soothe your anxiety. You cannot physically be harmed by being near it, it does not have droplet or airborne properties. Do you avoid other teratogenic medications like, ace inhibitors, tetracyclines, NSAIDs, anti seizure medications, Coumadin, etc, etc because they all can cause fetal defects if consumed. Try not to psyche yourself out.

The thing you should be worried about is caring for anyone with a droplet/airborne infection; TB, Shingles, measles, etc.

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Don't people generally see a doctor when they are pregnant?

Is th is thread asking for knowledge or is it asking for validation ?

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Specializes in ER, PCU, UCC, Observation medicine.

I think reassurance mostly.

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