A nurse is caring for a client who received an intravenous infusion of a systemic antineoplastic medication 24 hours ago. The client is unexpectedly incontinent of urine, which has heavily saturated the bed linens. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to safely manage this situation? Select all that apply.
- Put on two pairs of chemotherapy-approved gloves and a protective, fluid-resistant gown before touching the bedding.Answer
- BDiscard the saturated bedsheets into a red infectious waste receptacle.
- Cleanse the client's perineal area and any exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water.Answer
- DDirect the unit technician to strip the bed while wearing a standard isolation gown and single exam gloves.
- Flush the toilet twice with the lid lowered after disposing of any remaining collected urine.Answer
Answer
The correct actions include wearing double chemotherapy gloves and a fluid-resistant gown, cleansing the client's exposed skin with soap and water, and flushing the toilet twice with the lid lowered.
For up to 48 hours following the administration of systemic chemotherapy, a client's body fluids (including urine, feces, and emesis) contain hazardous antineoplastic metabolites. Nurses must wear specific PPE, including double chemotherapy-approved gloves and a fluid-resistant gown, to prevent skin absorption. Any skin on the client that contacts the urine must be washed thoroughly with soap and water to prevent chemical burns and systemic reabsorption. Finally, to prevent the aerosolization of these hazardous chemicals, bodily fluids disposed of in a toilet should be flushed twice with the lid firmly closed.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Hazardous Drug Precautions for Body Fluids