Safety Guidelines for Patients Taking Chemotherapy Agents at Home

Are you taking or assisting someone take chemotherapy at home?

Are the drugs kept in protective wrappers until needed?

Are the medicine containers stored according to the pharmacist's instructions?

Are all unused drugs returned to the oncology pharmacy for proper disposal?

Are children and pregnant women kept away from the drugs and any body fluids?

Are the patient's hands washed with soap and water after going to the bathroom?

Is the toilet closed and flushed after each use by the patient?

Are latex or vinyl gloves worn whenever handling body fluids or containers used to contain these fluids?

Do you wash your hands with soap and water after handling medication or the patient's body fluids?

Are spilled body fluids absorbed with paper towels then the area washed?

Has drug splashed onto skin or into eyes?

Has the areas been immediately rinsed and a poison center contacted?

Are empty drug containers and administration sets placed in puncture- and leak-proof containers for return to the oncology pharmacy?

Are paper towels and nonmedication waste placed in a plastic bag and thrown out with the regular garbage?

Are clothing and reusable diapers washed separately from other laundry?