Safety Standards Guidelines: Effect on Nursesꞌ Performance Regarding Safe Handling of Chemotherapy Drugs for Pediatric Patients

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Lecturers of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Benha University, Egypt

2 Lecturer of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Beni suef University, Egypt

Abstract

Abstract: Background:  Nurses are likely be exposed to an increased number of antineoplastic drugs (ADs) at work because of the rising incidence of cancer among pediatric patients and the introduction of more complicated treatment regimens. These medications must be handled and used by pediatric nurses with great cautions due to their toxicity. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of safety standards guidelines on nursesꞌ performance regarding safe handling of chemotherapy, drugs for pediatric patients. Design: A quasi-experimental design (pre, post and follow-up test) was used. Setting: The study was performed at the Oncology Department at Specialized Pediatric Hospital in Benha City. Sample:  A convenience sample of 50 nurses who were working in the selected setting. Instruments Three instruments were used: (a) Structured Interviewing Questionnaire Sheet, (b) Observational checklist for nurses’ practice regarding safe handling of antineoplastic drugs and (c) Nurses attitude regarding safe handling of antineoplastic drugs. Results: Nurses who had competent performance related to safe handling of antineoplastic drugs on pre, post and follow up were 14%, 99% and 91% respectively. Conclusion: safety standards guidelines significantly improved nurses’ knowledge, practice, and attitudes regarding safe handling of antineoplastic drugs for pediatric patient. Recommendation: Periodic in-service training programs are required for oncology pediatric nurses to increase their knowledge and competency.

Keywords

Menoufia Nursing Journal
Volume 9, Issue 1
January 2024
Pages 133-152

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