Foreword to Stay safe: requirements for a regulatory framework for the use of CSTDs

Citation

Cruickshank S & Henry R (2017) Foreword to Stay safe: requirements for a regulatory framework for the use of CSTDs. British Journal of Nursing, 26 (Supplement 16b), pp. S3-S4. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2017.26.Sup16b.S3

Abstract
There is a significant body of evidence describing the benefits of using systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) agents, such as chemotherapy, biological, hormone and antibiotics, to treat people diagnosed with cancer (Cancer Research UK, 2017). However, the potential improvements in survival outcomes must be regularly weighed against the risk of adverse health effects associated with exposure to them. For patients, the risks are balanced against the need to treat the cancer. For health professionals, the risks simply result from the occupational exposure that can occur when caring for patients receiving these drugs. Collectively referred to as cytotoxic agents, SACTs are known to be toxic; they are considered carcinogenic to humans, and are classified as hazardous (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 2010).

Journal
British Journal of Nursing: Volume 26, Issue Supplement 16b