Association of Pediatric Oncology Nurses (APHON)

APHON’s Pediatric Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Curriculum – Second Edition includes a chapter on the safe handling of chemotherapy that details the risks associated with handling cytotoxins and the measures that should be taken to prevent occupational exposure.

This resource refers to studies indicating that engineering controls and traditional handling practices do not prevent hazardous drug exposure, leading to the development of the closed-system drug transfer device (CSTD). The guidelines further specify use of a CSTD for the safe handling of hazardous drugs and reiterate the following recommendation from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):

 “When reconstituting drugs in vials, avoid pressure build up because it can result in aerosolization. Use a closed-system device (e.g. PhaSeal) if available.”