Is this normal?

Specialties Oncology

Published

What are the protocols for safely administering chemo in an outpatient clinic? I believe my company is violating JHACO regulations but I don't want to be a whistle blower. We don't use PPE's during mixing or administration of chemo to patients. We also have people who mix chemos who are not certified to do so, but due to being short staffed, they are being utilized. I'm concerned but in a dilemma because this is my job and I don't want to leave my patients.

There are no formal education relating to safely administration of chemo nor protocols. I would just like to know if this is standard in outpatient clinics. Thanks.

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Wrong on all counts. If you don't have policies/protocols that state otherwise, that's wrong, too. ONS is a good resource. Our outpatient clinic nurses had to complete a chemo administration course, maintain their chemo certification, and it was mandatory to use PPE specific to chemo administration while either mixing, handling or giving medication.

This is dangerous not just for the staff but for patients as well. If nurses don't have the proper education and/or equipment, everyone is in danger. Ethically speaking, you have noticed the problem. It isn't a matter of wanting to be a whistleblower or not. You need to do the right thing for everyone.

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Specializes in Oncology; medical specialty website.

I don't see how you're even able to pass state inspection. Wow...they are playing fast and loose with your licences. Why on earth would you not use PPE when mixing and administering chemo?

This sounds like a crappy organization: no policies; no PPE of mixing and administration; short staff; staff who do not have their chemo provider cards...what a hot mess!

Honestly, the best thing you could do for your patients is to be a whistleblower and make them straighten up and fly right.

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Specializes in Pain, critical care, administration, med.

I am not a oncology nurse but the practice definitely sounds unsafe for all. I believe you can file reports anonymously to Joint commission, the state and I believe OSHA. Always do the right thing when you see the wrong!

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