Nursing professionals’ knowledge regarding cyclophosphamide in a university hospital

Abstract

doi: 10.5216/ree.v15i2.16654 - http://dx.doi.org/10.5216/ree.v15i2.16654

ABSTRACT

This descriptive, quantitative study was performed at a University Hospital in Southern Minas Gerais State with the objective to verify nursing professionals’ knowledge regarding cyclophosphamide, identifying the professional category that handles this drug, what Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is used while handling and if workers received proper training. This study was performed between June and September of 2011, with 151 workers. Data collection was performed using a questionnaire and then manually input into a spreadsheet, described and presented as figures with absolute values and percentages. The results indicated that these workers have limited knowledge regarding cyclophosphamide, in that 52 were able to classify it and only 19 stated that PPE should be used while handling the drug; four workers had been trained; however, eight workers handled the drug. It is suggested that educational measures be implemented with the purpose to minimize the occupational risks caused by inappropriate handling of cyclophosphamide.

Descriptors: Cyclophosphamide; Nursing; Occupational Risks.