About 17 percent of nurses who work in outpatient chemotherapy infusion are unintentionally exposed to toxic drugs, according to a new study by the University of Michigan. "Any unintentional exposure to the skin or eyes could be just as dangerous as a needle stick," said lead study author Christopher Friese, assistant professor at the University of Michigan School of Nursing in a press release.
Comparing the chemo exposure to needle sticks, researchers said administrators offer immediate needle-stick evaluation and treatment that doesn't exist for toxic exposure incidents. "This research shows that paying attention to the workload, the health of an organization, and the quality of working conditions pays off. It's not just about job satisfaction--it's likely to lower the risk of these occupational hazards," Friese said. Press release