What personal protective equipment is essential for handling hazardous drugs?

The choice of chemical-resistant gloves and a respirator is essential when handling hazardous drugs, as these items provide the necessary protection against exposure to potentially harmful substances. Hazardous drugs can pose significant risk through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion, making it critical to use personal protective equipment (PPE) that is specifically designed to safeguard healthcare professionals from these dangers.

Chemical-resistant gloves are mandatory because they prevent direct contact with hazardous drugs and minimize the risk of dermal exposure. Not all gloves offer adequate protection against all types of hazardous drugs; therefore, gloves that are tested and approved for chemical resistance provide the necessary assurance of safety.

A respirator is equally important as many hazardous drugs can be airborne during preparation or administration, resulting in inhalation hazards. A properly fitted respirator offers respiratory protection by filtering out harmful particles and vapors, thus reducing the likelihood of inhaling toxic substances.

While the other options may offer some level of protection, they do not sufficiently address the specific hazards associated with handling hazardous drugs. For example, thick gloves and a surgical mask (the first choice) may not adequately protect against chemical exposure, while standard lab coats and safety goggles (the second choice) do not provide comprehensive protection either. Lastly, disposable gowns and non-slip footwear