PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsEasy
A pharmacy technician is preparing a sterile intravenous admixture that requires the addition of a chemotherapy agent. Which of the following pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) is most critical to protect the technician from exposure to hazardous drugs?
- ANitrile gloves and a chemotherapy gown
- BSterile shoe covers
- CStandard surgical mask
- DSafety glasses
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Nitrile gloves and a chemotherapy gown
When handling hazardous drugs like chemotherapy agents, specialized PPE is essential to prevent exposure. Nitrile gloves provide better protection than latex against many hazardous chemicals, and a chemotherapy gown (often impermeable) is crucial to protect the body.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Sterile shoe covers prevent contamination from shoes but do not protect the technician directly from drug exposure during compounding.
- C. A standard surgical mask does not provide adequate respiratory protection against hazardous drug aerosols or vapors.
- D. Safety glasses protect the eyes but do not offer comprehensive body or hand protection against hazardous drugs.
Hazardous Drug PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) specifically designed to protect healthcare workers from exposure to hazardous drugs, including chemotherapy agents.
- Includes chemotherapy gowns, double gloving (nitrile preferred), and appropriate respiratory protection.
- Protects against skin absorption, inhalation, and accidental ingestion.
- Mandated by USP <800> for handling hazardous drugs.
Memory trick: Hazardous drugs demand 'Gown Up, Glove Up, Guard Yourself' to stay safe.