A client who is receiving treatment for leukemia was administered a dose of intravenous cyclophosphamide 12 hours ago. The nurse is preparing to assist the client with hygiene and toileting. Which actions by the nurse indicate appropriate handling of hazardous materials and bodily fluids? Select all that apply.
- Flush the toilet twice with the lid closed after emptying the client's urinal.Answer
- Dispose of the gown and gloves worn during care in a designated yellow trace-chemotherapy waste container.Answer
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after removing personal protective equipment.Answer
- DPlace the client's soiled bed linens in a standard red biohazard bag for transport to the laundry facility.
- EWear a single pair of standard examination gloves when handling the client's bodily fluids.
Answer
The correct actions include flushing the toilet twice with the lid closed, disposing of PPE in a yellow trace-chemotherapy waste container, and washing hands with soap and water after removing PPE.
The correct actions for handling hazardous antineoplastic bodily fluids focus on minimizing environmental contamination and protecting staff. Flushing the toilet twice with the lid closed prevents the aerosolization of cytotoxic drug metabolites. Personal protective equipment worn during care is considered trace chemotherapy waste and must go into a designated yellow container. Finally, handwashing with soap and water is mandatory because alcohol-based hand sanitizers cannot deactivate or physically remove chemical residues from the skin.
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Key Concept
Safe Handling of Hazardous Antineoplastic Drugs and Excreta