Question for onco nurse r/t chemo precautions

[ccf317]

Just a question. My patients roomate IV was beeping. The infusion bag was turned backwards but was visibly empty. I had an extra flush so I decided to flush it for a fellow nurse. The top port was empty so after I took off my gloves I grabbed the bag to throw it away and a few drops got on my fingers. (like 2 drops) When I looked at the bag it was ganciclovir which requires chemo precautions. I washed my hands thoroughly and called a chemo nurse since i work med-surg. They really didnt have many answers and neither did my manager. Just to wash it thoroughly. Any advice on if I have anything to worry about? Not really sure if there could be any problems in the future related to this incident. Thanks

[nursie_pants]

I've been chemo certified for 6 months, so I'm no expert, but this is what I've come up with:

Ganciclovir's technically an antiviral drug (pregnancy category C - at least not D like some chemo drugs) and I didn't find any mention of it in any of my chemo lit. Sounds like it's used to treat CMV. I went to my Davis Drug Guide for info.

That said, Davis suggests gown and gloving up while handling it as well as disposing it in a special bin (e.g., chemo bucket).

Soaping and washing up good like you did after dropping some on your skin is the safest bet. Hopefully, you discarded the empty bag and tubing in a safe way as well. I really wouldn't be too concerned re: future problems related to that small, limited, one-time exposure.

[Schwarte]

I think you have increased you risk of having children with 6 fingers, lol just kidding... I am sure you will be fine!

[surviveslu]

On that same note, could you name some chemo agents that would require chemo precaution. Methotrexate? Octreotide?

[kyrn80]

Hi, this will come across as catty, but I don't mean it to be, and I realize you were only trying to help a co-worker. However, not all meds are compatible with NS for flushes; and chemo has to be flushed at the same rate it was infused (at least at my facility). Next time, to be safe, and no matter what is infusing, read the IV bag and THEN determine what to do.

Take care!