The Relationship of Knowledge with Application of Standard Principles of Working with Chemotherapeutic Agents among Nursing Staff

Chemotherapy drugs can be dangerous for nurses. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of knowledge with application of standard principles of working with chemotherapeutic agents among nursing staff in Ahwaz، Iran. Subjects and This is a descriptive-analytical study. Based on the census method، 59 nurses and healthcare employees working in chemotherapy wards in hospitals affiliated to Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences were recruited in the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire to assess their knowledge and performance of application of the principles precautions related to administration of chemotherapeutic agents. Descriptive statistics (Mean and SD، frequency، percentage)، Pearson correlation coefficient and Independent T-test were used for analyzing the data. The mean knowledge score of the participants was 8. 62± 2. 46. Mean score of awareness of risks of working with chemotherapeutic agents was 4. 06± 2. 2 and the mean score of nurses'' practice was 78. 30±14. 32. There was no significant relationship between knowledge about risks of chemotherapy exposure and their safety practice (P= 0. 18)، as well as between awareness of risks and safety practice (P= 0. 65). However there was a significant relationship between training in the workplace and safety practice (P= 0. 03). Nurses'' knowledge and performance about standard principles of working in the chemotherapy wards was not satisfactory; therefore، continuing education for nurses to reduce the risks associated with exposure to chemotherapeutic agents is needed in order to improve the work environment.