[Study of the application of the guidelines for the handling of citotoxic drugs in some health facilities]. / Studio dell'applicazione delle linee guida per la manipolazione dei farmaci antiblastici in alcune strutture sanitarie.

AIM: A survey in 5 Roman hospital was carried out to have a deep understanding of guidelines application and existing regulations regarding health professionals' protection in handling antiblastic drugs. METHODS: A questionnaire was administered to 122 nurses, working in oncology units, about the main points required by guidelines for safe handling of antiblastic drugs. RESULTS: Results show that attention to collective protection equipment and working practices is evident, nevertheless other elements are still partly applied, first the lack of staff training, which not involved all health professionals and the frequency which does not fit guidelines. The use of Personal Protective equipment, where provided, is sometimes ignored, a situation which can be connected to the lack of specific training of personnel. CONCLUSIONS: Greater attention must be taken to ensure that required training for nurses involved in the preparation and administration of antiblastic drugs, this is the starting point for the proper use of Personal Protective equipment and of appropriate procedures in each work phase. Increased control by the institutional bodies to confirm compliance with the rules and regulations for the protection of workers' health is desiderable.