Question

question 112

a pharmacy technician is reviewing a prescription for a hazardous drug. according to usp <800>, which of the following personal protective equipment (ppe) items should the technician wear when handling this medication?

a standard surgical mask and gloves
standard latex gloves only
shoe covers and a hair net only
chemotherapy-rated gloves, gown, and eye protection as required

Explanation:

Identify the regulatory standard

Using the USP 800 Regulations knowledge point
USP Chapter <800> provides practice and quality standards for handling hazardous drugs (HDs) to promote patient safety, worker safety, and environmental protection.

Determine PPE requirements

Using the Personal Protective Equipment Standards knowledge point
When handling hazardous drugs, standard surgical masks and standard latex gloves do not provide adequate protection against chemical exposure or permeation. USP <800> mandates the use of chemotherapy-rated gloves, protective gowns, and eye/face protection when there is a risk of spills or splashes.

Evaluate the options

• A standard surgical mask and gloves: Incorrect. Standard surgical masks do not protect against hazardous drug aerosols or vapors, and standard gloves may not be chemotherapy-rated.
• Standard latex gloves only: Incorrect. Inadequate protection; double chemotherapy-rated gloves and gowns are generally required.
• Shoe covers and a hair net only: Incorrect. These do not protect the hands, body, or respiratory tract from exposure.
• Chemotherapy-rated gloves, gown, and eye protection as required: Correct. This aligns with USP <800> standards for personal protective equipment when handling hazardous drugs.

Answer:

• (A) A standard surgical mask and gloves
• (B) Standard latex gloves only
• (C) Shoe covers and a hair net only
• (D) Chemotherapy-rated gloves, gown, and eye protection as required (Correct answer)