Event Title
Exploration of Chemotherapy Safe-Handling Practices and Identification of Knowledge Deficits among Oncology Nurses in the Ambulatory Care Setting
Location
Hager-Lubbers Exhibition Hall
Description
PURPOSE: The purpose of this project is to explore nursing practice regarding the safe-administration of outpatient chemotherapy and establish whether a knowledge deficit exists. A survey was distributed to a population of 68 oncology nurses in an outpatient setting to explore the disparity between evidence-based recommendations and actual implementation. Synthesis and Analysis of Supporting Literature: Significant misconceptions regarding chemotherapy exposure and associated risks may affect the awareness of oncology nurses. Implementation of safe-handling strategies is low, despite nursing reports of high levels of knowledge, self-efficacy related to administration, and perceptions of harm related to exposure. Project Implementation: Outpatient oncology nurses employed by a multi-site cancer and hematology center were asked to complete a mailed, voluntary, and anonymous survey. A response rate of 53% was obtained. Procedures: The Chemotherapy Handling Questionnaire was used. This survey included scales that measure knowledge, barriers to using personal protective equipment, perceived risks of exposure, self-efficacy, interpersonal norms and modeling. Outcomes: Project findings suggest that despite high levels of exposure knowledge and moderate levels of self-efficacy for the use of personal protective equipment, total precaution use of outpatient oncology nurses is still low. IMPACT: Qualitative survey comments urge organizational leaders to ensure that appropriate PPE is readily available to nursing staff, open the lines of communication regarding chemotherapy safety and expectations for compliance. The implementation of this project support the need for an ongoing evaluation of the safety climates of organizations to foster a culture that supports nurses and advocates for their needs.
Exploration of Chemotherapy Safe-Handling Practices and Identification of Knowledge Deficits among Oncology Nurses in the Ambulatory Care Setting
Hager-Lubbers Exhibition Hall
PURPOSE: The purpose of this project is to explore nursing practice regarding the safe-administration of outpatient chemotherapy and establish whether a knowledge deficit exists. A survey was distributed to a population of 68 oncology nurses in an outpatient setting to explore the disparity between evidence-based recommendations and actual implementation. Synthesis and Analysis of Supporting Literature: Significant misconceptions regarding chemotherapy exposure and associated risks may affect the awareness of oncology nurses. Implementation of safe-handling strategies is low, despite nursing reports of high levels of knowledge, self-efficacy related to administration, and perceptions of harm related to exposure. Project Implementation: Outpatient oncology nurses employed by a multi-site cancer and hematology center were asked to complete a mailed, voluntary, and anonymous survey. A response rate of 53% was obtained. Procedures: The Chemotherapy Handling Questionnaire was used. This survey included scales that measure knowledge, barriers to using personal protective equipment, perceived risks of exposure, self-efficacy, interpersonal norms and modeling. Outcomes: Project findings suggest that despite high levels of exposure knowledge and moderate levels of self-efficacy for the use of personal protective equipment, total precaution use of outpatient oncology nurses is still low. IMPACT: Qualitative survey comments urge organizational leaders to ensure that appropriate PPE is readily available to nursing staff, open the lines of communication regarding chemotherapy safety and expectations for compliance. The implementation of this project support the need for an ongoing evaluation of the safety climates of organizations to foster a culture that supports nurses and advocates for their needs.