Abstract
Many drugs used in cancer treatment are considered hazardous to healthcare workers. These drugs require special handing because of the health risk associated with direct exposure. However, occupational exposure to antineoplastic drugs is common in many hospitals. Gowns are worn as protective garments. Guidelines recommend the use of lintfree gowns made of low-permeability fabric, such as polyethylene-coated materials. In this study, we compared the permeability properties of various polypropylene-based protective gowns against a battery of anticancer drugs (fluorouracil and paclitaxel). We determined the risk associated with the use of inappropriate gowns. Permeability, humidity, and repellency of 5 unwoven fabric gown samples were determined according to the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS). The results show that none of the samples of unwoven fabric gowns provided the same level of protection as the polyethylene-coated gowns. In addition, low-permeability gowns, especially those with a high repellency, may pollute the working area when contaminated. The risk of occupational exposure was thought to be higher in hospitals where inappropriate gowns are worn. Therefore, individuals being exposed to hazardous drugs should adhere to the guidelines regarding protective clothing in order to minimize occupational exposure.
