While transporting a prepared intravenous bag of doxorubicin to a client's room, an oncology nurse accidentally drops the bag on the floor, causing it to rupture and spill the antineoplastic solution into the hallway. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
- Secure the perimeter of the spill and instruct a nearby staff member to obtain the hazardous drug spill kit.Answer
- BImmediately cover the spilled fluid with standard absorbent hospital bath blankets to prevent further spread.
- CLeave the hallway briefly to wash the hands and gather a chemotherapy gown, respirator, and double gloves.
- DPage the environmental services department to immediately dispatch a chemical hazard cleanup team.
Answer
The correct action is to secure the perimeter of the spill and instruct a nearby staff member to obtain the hazardous drug spill kit.
When a hazardous medication, such as an antineoplastic agent, spills in a clinical area, the immediate priority is to prevent human exposure and cross-contamination. The nurse must stay with the spill to establish a safe perimeter and verbally instruct a colleague to retrieve the facility's hazardous drug spill kit. This ensures the spill is never left unattended while the proper protective and cleaning equipment is gathered.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Management of Hazardous Drug Spills