The incidence of cancer is staggering and chemotherapy has become a much-used treatment. The cytostatic drugs used for this treatment, however, are not without hazards. Truly committed to optimally protecting healthcare workers and patients alike, Ansell has been conducting research into the cytostatics threat for many years now. Our efforts result in advanced products and groundbreaking programmes, such as the world-renowned Ansell Cytostatics Permeation Programme (ACPP). Based on that expertise, we are ideally placed to provide expert advice on the proper handling of cytostatics.

PPE + safety procedures

Avoiding exposure to cytostatic agents implies both the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and following the most stringent safety procedures. Ansell’s recently published Cytostatics Safe Handling Guide briefly describes what gloves to don and what procedures to follow - from the moment the drugs arrive in the hospital pharmacy thru’ to their administration to the patients.

Step 1: preparation

Preparatory steps before reconstituting the cytostatic mixture include donning appropriate PPE and a thorough disinfection of both the work area and all equipment. For these steps, Ansell recommends its Nitra-Touch™ glove, which combines superior chemical and puncture resistance. Being a synthetic glove, the Nitra-Touch™ eliminates the risk of latex type I allergies.

Step 2: reconstitution of the cytostatic mixture

Again, wearing the appropriate barrier protection (sterile gloves!) and disinfection are key when preparing the cytostatic mixture. Pharmacists can choose to wear either synthetic or latex gloves in this step. Ansell’s polychloroprene DermaShield® couples excellent chemical resistance to latex-like comfort and flexibility, without giving type I or type IV allergies any chance. The latex Gammex® PF XP™ is Ansell’s latest showpiece. Read more about it in the box below.

Step 3: administration of cytostatics to patients

Here it’s vitally important to also take the safety of the patient into account. As cancer patients’ resistance is low, Ansell recommends to wear synthetic gloves in order to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. The nitrile Nitra-Tex® glove or its longer-sleeve counterpart ensure an effective barrier against chemicals and a secure grip, without compromising comfort.

You’ll find the full Guide at the ‘special programmes’ section of our website