LAUSR

This article explores the immediate adverse effects experienced by nurses during the administration of systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT), specifically cytotoxic chemotherapy, and whether closed systems are being used to minimise exposure risk. Many SACT agents are known to be carcinogenic, teratogenic and mutagenic and this has led to concerns relating to the increased number of healthcare workers potentially exposed to these agents. An anonymous online survey was designed, made up of four questions, to elicit whether adverse effects were experienced by nurses during preparation, administration or following administration of chemotherapy. A total of 46% of respondents stated that they experienced some form of adverse effect either during preparation, administration or following administration of SACT. More formal research is required in this area to explore the relationship between exposure to SACT and perceived adverse effects in healthcare workers administering SACT.