These procedures are the standards expected when handling Cytotoxic or Biotherapy for all staff within the CDHB. Any staff involved in Cytotoxic or Biotherapy management should be familiar with all procedures.
They are reviewed by the Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Service Senior Nursing team.
If you have any queries please contact one of us, contact details are on the Our Staff page.
The CDHB has adopted antineoplastic drug administration procedures developed by eviQ. While these procedures cover all key aspects of administration, they DO NOT always reflect clinical practice within the Canterbury Regional Cancer and Haematology Service.
Therefore CRITICAL NOTES have been developed to highlight practice differences and must be used in conjunction with the CDHB policy and procedures. If you are unsure, please discuss with the senior nurses in your area.
Safe Handling and Waste & Spill Management
CRITICAL NOTES
As a miminum, you must don chemo protectant gloves when handling oral chemotherapy medication and as a minimum, you must don the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when handling any cytotoxic drugs that are administered as solutions.
- Chemo protectant gloves. These are non-sterile gloves with reinforced finger tips & a long cuff. The current brand that is being used is HALYARD.
- Long sleeve impermeable gown that has a cuff.
Some situations may also require the need to don goggles/face shield and a mask.
Click here for CDHB Waste and Spill Management
Administration
CRITICAL NOTE
Please follow the CDHB CVAD policy and use the IV administration procedure when administering intravenous cytotoxic drugs via a CVAD.
IV Administration
SC/IM Administration
Oral Administration
Cytotoxic Spill Kits
Are available from the Oncology Ward. Please note, if you require a spill kit on an ongoing basis, please see the cytotoxic spill kit contents (below) to order items through the Oracle ordering system.
Cytotoxic Spill Kit Contents
Infusion Related Reactions
Please see local area procedures for managing infusion related reactions or refer to Hospital Health Pathways
Extravasation Management
CRITICAL NOTE
There is conflicting evidence around the use of antidotes when treating cytotoxic drug related extravasations. If this occurs in your area, please contact one of the pharmacists who work in the haematology/oncology areas for advice regarding the use of antidotes. See the 'Our Staff' page for contact details.
Extravasation Overview
Extravasation Management Table
Immediate Management Flow Chart
Extravasation Assessment Tool
Patient Information sheet
Care at Home After Extravasation - Cold or Warm Compress