Safe disposal of cytotoxic waste: an evaluation of an air-tight system

Br J Nurs. 2017 Sep 7;26(16):S18-S24. doi: 10.12968/bjon.2017.26.16.S18.

Abstract

A 3-month evaluation was undertaken at the Kent Oncology Centre's chemotherapy day unit (CDU) to trial an air-tight sealing disposal system for cytotoxic waste management. Research has identified the potential risk to staff who handle waste products that are hazardous to health. Staff safety was a driving force behind a trial of a new way of working. This article provides an overview of the evaluation of the Pactosafe system in one clinical area, examining reviews by oncology healthcare workers, the practicalities in the clinical setting, training, cost effectiveness and the environmental benefits.

Keywords: Antineoplastic drugs; Cytotoxic waste; Oncology; Waste product disposal.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Hazardous Waste*
  • Humans
  • Medical Waste Disposal*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / nursing
  • Occupational Exposure / prevention & control*
  • Quality Improvement
  • State Medicine
  • United Kingdom

Substances

  • Hazardous Waste
  • Medical Waste Disposal