1.    Introduction 

Many cytotoxic drugs have the potential to cause carcinogenics . The two main routes of occupational absorption are by inhalation of aerosols or powder and by passage through the skin and mucous membrane. Some cytotoxic drugs have the potential to cause contact damage to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes.

3.    Quality Assurance
 

        Parenteral cytotoxic drugs are reconstituted in Class10,000 Vertical Laminar Airflow Hood (Cytogard) which is designed  to provide an environment which is free from bacteria contamination and protect the operator from exposure to aerosols.  Validation of both cytogard and clean room is carried out once a year. Routine basic microbiological monitoring using passive agar plate is  done weekly.

Proper documentation, labeling and  safe handling of the drugs are emphasized in this service. Personnel are trained to ensure strict aseptic technique during compounding to maintain the sterility of the product and avoid spillage of the product. Education and training has been carried out through the year for the staff.

Proper disposal of waste materials is handled by the Hospital Support Service.

4.    Achievement
 

QAP Indicator

Proportion of CDR requests/ prescriptions compounded by the scheduled date to total no. of requests received. (Standard not less than 90%).

For 2002, our achievement was 100%.

5.     Plans for 2003

        5.1    Target :   No. of doses to be reconstituted: Min. of 2,500 doses .

        5.2   Medical check-up for staff who is involved in preparing CDR.

        5.3   To improve the safety aspects of the CDR room.