Abstract
Purpose
To characterize and identify trends in current practices for ordering, handling, dispensing, administering, and disposing of oral antineoplastics.
Methods
An electronic survey was designed and sent to pharmacists and nurses via professional society listservs.
Results
One hundred and twenty-three practitioners responded to the survey. Of those responding, 76% described having an official policy regarding the handling of oral antineoplastics. Prescribing was limited to attending physicians or oncologists the majority of the time (42% and 98%, respectively), with 11% accepting telephone orders for oral antineoplastics. Personal protective equipment was required by many of the respondents; 70% required gloves be worn. Patient contact precautions were utilized by 79% of practitioners, of which 81% followed similar precautions for targeted therapies. Compounding was required to be performed in a biological safety cabinet by 88% of respondents, and 83% required decontamination of supplies and equipment after exposure to oral antineoplastics.
Conclusion
Although practices varied slightly, the majority of respondents follow available guidance when handling oral antineoplastics.
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