A nurse preceptor is observing a newly licensed nurse care for a client who completed an intravenous chemotherapy infusion 24 hours ago. Which action by the newly licensed nurse indicates proper handling of the client's hazardous bodily fluids?
- Donning a fluid-resistant gown and two pairs of chemotherapy-tested gloves before emptying the client's urinal.Answer
- BDisposing of the empty intravenous chemotherapy infusion bag into a standard red biohazard waste container.
- CFlushing the toilet a single time immediately after disposing of the client's emesis to minimize aerosolization.
- DDelegating the disposal of the client's urine to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) using standard precautions.
Answer
The nurse must don a fluid-resistant gown and two pairs of chemotherapy-tested gloves before handling the client's bodily fluids.
Chemotherapy drugs and their active metabolites remain in the client's system and are excreted in bodily fluids for at least 48 hours (or longer, depending on the specific drug) after administration. The nurse must implement hazardous drug safe handling precautions to prevent occupational exposure. This protocol specifically includes wearing a disposable, fluid-resistant gown and double-gloving with chemotherapy-tested gloves when emptying urinals, handling emesis, or changing contaminated linens.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe Handling of Chemotherapy and Hazardous Drugs