Authors

  1. Huff, Cynthia MSN, RN, OCN(R), CRNI(R), CNL(R)

Abstract

Safety concerns have existed for more than 40 years about how hazardous drug (HD) exposure contributes to adverse health outcomes in health care workers. Careless handling causes toxic HD residues to infiltrate hospital and ambulatory care settings and can even be tracked to patient homes. Little is known about the adverse health outcomes experienced by exposed caregivers. The December 1, 2019, release of new regulations will enforce health care organizations to minimize risk to all health care workers by implementing the US Pharmacopeia (USP) General Chapter<800>Hazardous Drugs-Handling in Healthcare Settings safety standards. Worker safety measures include wearing personal protective equipment, even in home care settings.