Published Feb 19, 2013
SYNURSE
1 Post
I am new to administration of chemotherapy and am concerned about risk of exposure and possible detrimental health effects of administration - I am of childbearing years and may want to have more children. We have pharmacy mix the chemo in a special hood and all chemo comes with tubing already primed...I have taken the ONS class and have been provided with PPE (gowns, gloves, splash guard mask, etc.). Is there any words of wisdom from nurses already doing this therapy or anything else I can do to minimize my risk?
SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN
4 Articles; 2,058 Posts
Follow protocol. I am also a WOCBA (woman of childbearing age). Plenty of my coworkers are also WOCBAs. The risk of exposure is essentially eliminated if you take the proper precautions.
Tobygo2
70 Posts
Ensure you wear PPE and double glove if you wish. As long as all safety measures are taken you should be just fine.
KelRN215, BSN, RN
1 Article; 7,349 Posts
Take the proper precautions and you will be fine. I've known people who've given chemo throughout their pregnancies.
KarenJordan
25 Posts
Use your PPE. On most units I've worked on, when you start trying to conceive or become pregnant, unit manager will change your assignment so you aren't administering chemo.
OCNRN63, RN
5,978 Posts
If you took the chemo provider course and have PPE, follow appropriate precautions, you should be fine. There is a certain degree risk with handling chemo, that's why it's imperative that you pay strict attention to what you are doing when you are handling medications.
If you are anxious, perhaps reviewing safe handling would be in order.