Which practice is essential for handling hazardous drugs?

Wearing chemotherapy gloves is crucial when handling hazardous drugs due to their protective properties, designed specifically to prevent the permeation of harmful substances. These gloves are made from materials that resist degradation from potent agents, ensuring that healthcare personnel are less likely to experience skin absorption or contamination. In settings where hazardous drugs are prepared, the integrity of the gloves is paramount; they need to provide a robust barrier between the hazardous substances and the person handling them.

Additionally, the use of chemotherapy gloves aligns with safety protocols established by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). These guidelines emphasize the importance of protective measures in preventing exposure to hazardous drugs, which can have serious health implications.

While other practices mentioned may play a role in overall safety and handling, they do not provide the necessary protection as effectively as chemotherapy gloves do. For instance, non-sterile gloves may not offer sufficient protection against hazardous drugs, and surgical masks alone do not protect against dermal exposure, which is a primary concern when handling these substances. Minimal handling is also a procedure to reduce risk, but it cannot substitute for the proper protective equipment needed to safeguard against exposure effectively.