An Investigation of Nurses' Preparedness for Handling Occupational Exposure to Chemotherapy Drugs at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital
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Background of the Study
Occupational exposure to chemotherapy drugs is a significant concern for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses working in oncology units or chemotherapy administration settings. Chemotherapy drugs, while essential for the treatment of various cancers, are cytotoxic, which means they can cause harmful effects to both cancerous and normal cells (Sharma et al., 2023). Nurses who handle these drugs are at risk of exposure through skin contact, inhalation, or accidental ingestion, which can lead to long-term health complications, including infertility, cancer, and neurological disorders (Han et al., 2024).
At the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, a major healthcare institution in Kwara State, Nigeria, oncology nurses routinely administer chemotherapy treatments and handle chemotherapy drugs. However, limited studies suggest that there may be insufficient training and preparedness among nurses regarding the safe handling and management of chemotherapy drugs, potentially exposing them to health risks (Ajibola et al., 2023). Despite the introduction of safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE), the adoption of these safety measures by nurses may not be consistent, leading to higher exposure levels.
This study will investigate the preparedness of nurses at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital for handling chemotherapy drugs, with a focus on safety measures, knowledge of risks, and adherence to protocols.
Statement of the Problem
Exposure to chemotherapy drugs poses significant health risks to healthcare professionals, especially nurses who regularly handle these medications. Despite established safety protocols for chemotherapy drug administration, there is limited research on the preparedness of nurses at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital to manage occupational exposure to these drugs. The failure to adequately protect healthcare workers from exposure to toxic chemotherapy agents can have detrimental long-term effects on their health. This study seeks to assess the level of preparedness among nurses and identify factors that may influence their ability to safely handle chemotherapy drugs.
Objectives of the Study
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To assess the level of knowledge among nurses at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital regarding the safe handling of chemotherapy drugs.
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To evaluate the preparedness of nurses to handle occupational exposure to chemotherapy drugs in the hospital.
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To identify the barriers and challenges faced by nurses in adhering to safety protocols when handling chemotherapy drugs.
Research Questions
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What is the level of knowledge among nurses at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital regarding the safe handling of chemotherapy drugs?
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To what extent are nurses at the hospital prepared to handle occupational exposure to chemotherapy drugs?
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What challenges do nurses face in adhering to safety protocols when handling chemotherapy drugs?
Research Hypotheses
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Nurses with specialized training in oncology are more knowledgeable about the safe handling of chemotherapy drugs.
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The availability of safety equipment and training positively influences nurses’ preparedness for handling chemotherapy drugs.
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Nurses with more years of experience in oncology are better prepared to handle chemotherapy drugs safely.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on oncology nurses and those working in chemotherapy administration areas at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. Limitations may include potential biases in self-reported data, variability in training programs, and the availability of safety equipment and resources. The findings may not be applicable to other healthcare settings with different protocols or resource levels.
Definitions of Terms
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Chemotherapy Drugs: Medications used to treat cancer that are toxic to cancer cells and normal cells.
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Occupational Exposure: Exposure to hazardous substances, such as chemotherapy drugs, as part of the nurse’s professional duties.
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Preparedness: The readiness and ability of nurses to safely handle chemotherapy drugs, including their knowledge of safety protocols and use of protective equipment.
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