What is the relevance of USP <800> to handling hazardous drugs in chemotherapy?

• A. It provides standards for safe handling, storage, segregation, and disposal of hazardous drugs to protect staff and patients.
• B. It only concerns manufacturing processes.
• C. It applies only to nursing staff in surgical units.
• D. It replaces all existing infection control protocols.

Answer: (D)

USP <800> provides a comprehensive framework for protecting healthcare workers and patients from exposure to hazardous drugs used in chemotherapy. It establishes standards for safe handling across the full spectrum of the drug’s lifecycle—receiving, storing, compounding, administering, transporting, and disposing of hazardous drugs. This isn’t limited to manufacturing or a single setting; it applies to any place in the healthcare environment where these drugs are handled, including pharmacies, infusion clinics, med-surg units, and operating rooms.

Crucially, USP <800> complements existing infection prevention and occupational safety programs rather than replacing them. It works alongside engineering controls (such as ventilation and closed-system transfer devices), administrative policies, proper use of PPE, staff training, and spill management procedures to minimize exposure risks. The emphasis is on risk-based planning, clear procedures, and accountability so that every step—from preparation to waste disposal—contributes to safer handling of hazardous drugs like those used in chemotherapy.