In May, the European Biosafety Network (EBN), in collaboration with the German Society for Oncological Nursing (KOK), hosted an informative and highly practical online webinar designed specifically for oncology nurses and healthcare professionals working with cytotoxic drugs.

This webinar was developed in response to increasing awareness of the occupational risks associated with handling hazardous drugs and the need for up-to-date, evidence-based guidance.

Cytotoxic drugs, which include substances that are carcinogenic, reprotoxic, or mutagenic, are widely used in chemotherapy treatments. While vital for patient care, these drugs pose serious health risks to the healthcare staff who prepare, administer, or dispose of them.

The webinar provided attendees with expert insights and practical tools to navigate these challenges safely and effectively.

If you missed the live event, a recording of the webinar is available to watch here.

Featured Experts:

  • Matthias Ehrhardt, Board Member, KOK
  • Diana Lang, Board Member, KOK

Both speakers brought extensive expertise in oncological nursing and workforce safety, sharing real-world knowledge and the latest recommendations from European and international research.

Webinar Highlights:

  • Understanding the Risks: An overview of the types of cytotoxic drugs and the risks they pose, including potential exposure routes and long-term health effects.
  • Protective Measures: Strategies for minimising exposure through personal protective equipment (PPE), engineering controls, and safe work practices.
  • Administration Protocols: Step-by-step guidance on the safe administration of cytotoxic agents, with an emphasis on reducing the risk of spills, splashes, and contamination.
  • Legal Responsibilities: A breakdown of the latest legal frameworks and liability issues related to cytotoxic drug handling, including employer obligations and staff rights.
  • Effective Communication: Best practices for counselling patients undergoing chemotherapy, ensuring that complex information is conveyed with empathy and clarity.

Healthcare workers deserve a safe working environment, and understanding the risks associated with cytotoxic drugs is crucial for protecting healthcare worker health and well-being. This webinar discussed how to adopt a proactive approach to safety, compliance with current regulations, and fostering open communication with patients.