What is essential to wear when working in a PEC with hazardous medications?

When working in a Primary Engineering Control (PEC) with hazardous medications, it is essential to wear a gown specifically designed for this purpose. These gowns are made from materials that minimize the risk of contamination and provide a barrier against hazardous substances. Wearing a gown helps protect not only the individual preparing the medications but also reduces the risk of exposure to the hazardous agents that could occur during the compounding process.

The gown is typically part of a broader Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ensemble, which may also include gloves, masks, and respiratory protection, all tailored for handling hazardous drugs. The gown should be disposable and designed to prevent any particles or liquid from penetrating, ensuring safety in the sterile environment.

In contrast, while an apron and a lab coat may provide some level of protection against splashes or contamination, they do not offer the same comprehensive barrier against hazardous medications as a specialized gown does. Gloves, while vital for hand protection, need to be complemented with a gown to provide full protection from potential exposure.