When administering compounded hazardous medications, what protective equipment is essential?

The use of double chemotherapy gloves is essential when administering compounded hazardous medications due to the need for enhanced protection against potential exposure to harmful drugs. Hazardous medications, such as chemotherapy agents, have the potential to cause adverse health effects not only to patients but also to healthcare workers involved in their preparation and administration.

Double gloving provides an additional layer of defense, reducing the risk of dermal exposure through glove punctures. The outer glove can protect against contaminants, while the inner glove serves as a backup if the outer layer is compromised. Additionally, the gloves used must be specifically designed for handling hazardous materials, often made from materials that are less permeable to prevent the absorption of these dangerous agents.

While a lab coat and face masks are important components of personal protective equipment, they do not provide the same level of protection specifically at the hands where exposure risk is highest during drug preparation and administration. Single chemotherapy gloves, while beneficial, do not offer the same precautionary measures as double gloving, thus making it insufficient for hazardous medication handling.