Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to assess the level of compliance among oncology nurses with personal protective equipment while handling chemotherapy and determine factors hindering its use.
Method
In this cross-sectional study, 100 nurses from six Palestinian hospitals completed a paper-based questionnaire measuring compliance with personal protective equipment use, knowledge of exposure, self-efficacy, barriers, perceived risk, conflict of interest, interpersonal influences, and workplace safety climate. A bivariate correlation analysis was used.
Results
Nurses were experienced in oncology, well-educated, received training on the use of personal protective equipment, and, on average, treated 1–5 patients per day. Knowledge on chemotherapy exposure was low (Mean = 6.77, Standard Deviation ± 1.87); as was self-efficacy (13.22 ± 3.32). Perceived barriers to using personal protective equipment were moderate (29.93 ± 9.00); as was workplace safety climate (54.11 ± 11.43). Total precaution use during chemotherapy administration was moderate (2.3 ± 0.67). Nurse characteristics did not predict personal protective equipment use. Bivariate correlation showed fewer barriers and better interpersonal influences were independent predictors of higher personal protective equipment use.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that Palestinian oncology nurses exhibited a moderate level of adherence to the use of personal protective equipment. Compliance with personal protective equipment was highest during chemotherapy administration and lowest during disposal activities. Further research is necessary to comprehend the impact of nurses' beliefs and attitudes on compliance levels. Additionally, future studies should consider other healthcare providers inadvertently exposed to chemotherapy.