Knowledge and Practices Regarding the Safe Handling of Cytotoxic Drugs Among Oncology Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Cytotoxic drugs are essential in cancer treatment but may pose significant occupational health risks to healthcare workers. Oncology nurses are frequently exposed during the preparation, administration, handling, and disposal of these drugs. Adequate knowledge and safe practices are therefore essential to minimize occupational exposure and promote workplace safety. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 oncology nurses working in a selected oncology department. Total population sampling was used because the accessible population consisted of approximately 80 eligible nurses. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge, and practices regarding cytotoxic drug handling. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: The findings demonstrated that most participants had moderate knowledge regarding the safe handling of cytotoxic drugs, while the majority demonstrated good practices. Overall, 56.3% of participants had moderate knowledge and 63.8% demonstrated good practices. Better knowledge and practices were generally observed among nurses with higher qualifications and greater professional experience. Conclusion: The study concluded that oncology nurses demonstrated moderate knowledge and generally good practices regarding the safe handling of cytotoxic drugs. However, important gaps remained in specific safety procedures, particularly spill management and accidental exposure management. Regular training, competency assessment, adequate PPE availability, and strict implementation of institutional safety guidelines are recommended to improve occupational safety among oncology nurses.