Cytotoxic waste can be very harmful if exposed to it. So what is cytotoxic waste? It is waste from cytotoxic drugs. These drugs contain chemicals that prove toxic to cells. This can be a good thing when fighting cancers and other diseases because they stop cells from replicating and growing. But there are clear risks involved in being exposed to it. While they can stop unhealthy cells from replicating, they can also destroy healthy cells so precautions have to be taken. This is especially so when dealing with the waste.
Those who work in hospital or other medical settings are most at risk. There are different ways to be exposed, for example, through inhalation, absorbing it through the skin or ingestion. Special care needs to be taken when dealing with patients who are taking cytotoxic drugs. When managing any of their bodily fluids, precautions must be taken as they can be contaminated with cytotoxic waste. This waste must be disposed of properly as it can remain contaminated for up to a week. The safest and best way to get rid of cytotoxic waste is to incinerate it.
So what things would class as cytotoxic waste? Basically, anything that comes into contact with cytotoxic drugs. This could include gloves, vials, personal protective clothing, masks, syringes, etc.
Sounds straight forward enough. How, then, should cytotoxic waste be handled? The short answer is very carefully. But a few more tips might help. Some more obvious suggestions are to wear protective clothing, including gloves and goggles. Any clothing worn that could be contaminated with cytotoxic waste, must be washed separately, and even placed in a separate laundry bag while waiting to be washed. The person washing the clothes must also wear personal protective clothing. Yes, it’s that serious that all precautions be taken. The drugs should only be handled by personnel who are trained to deal with it. Any waste containers used for cytotoxic waste must be labelled correctly and sealed. The containers must also be kept in a safe area and undergo regular maintenance.
What are the risks if you’re exposed to cytotoxic waste? They can range from hair loss, nausea and vomiting, allergic reactions to other things like severe soft tissue damage, mutation of cells, risks to a foetus during pregnancy and liver damage.
To be aware of the risks involved and taking the proper precautions will keep you and other members of staff safe.
