Nurse’s Responsibility and Liability in Chemotherapy Formulation: Legal and Ethical Considerations

Year : 2025 | Volume : 03 | Issue : 01 | Page : 15-20
    By

    Rupinder Kaur,

  1. Associate Professor/Secretary Punjab, Department of Oncology Nursing, Sri Guru Ram Das University of Health Sciences, Punjab, India

Abstract

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Each year, over 16 million new cancer cases are diagnosed globally. Cancer causes cells to grow uncontrollably, potentially leading to the formation of tumors, immune system damage, and other debilitating effects that can be fatal. Common cancer treatments include surgery to remove tumors, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and immunotherapy. Among these, chemotherapy plays a significant role, accounting for nearly half of the overall treatment approach. Chemotherapy drugs can be administered through various methods, but they are often nonselective, affecting both cancerous and healthy cells in numerous organs and tissues. While chemotherapy can be lifesaving for patients, the preparation and administration of these drugs come with significant risks, including teratogenic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic effects for both patients and healthcare workers. Therefore, it is essential that only nurses with specialized training in chemotherapy preparation be entrusted with these responsibilities. Ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare providers is a key priority throughout the entire chemotherapy treatment process. Additionally, healthcare workers must be well-versed in proper procedures for cleaning chemotherapy spills. Beyond the patient’s well-being, the occupational health risks to healthcare workers handling these potent drugs must also be fully addressed to minimize exposure and ensure a safe working environment.

Keywords: Chemotherapy, cancer treatment, occupational risks, patient safety, healthcare workers

[This article belongs to International Journal of Oncological Nursing and Practices ]

How to cite this article:
Rupinder Kaur. Nurse’s Responsibility and Liability in Chemotherapy Formulation: Legal and Ethical Considerations. International Journal of Oncological Nursing and Practices. 2025; 03(01):15-20.
How to cite this URL:
Rupinder Kaur. Nurse’s Responsibility and Liability in Chemotherapy Formulation: Legal and Ethical Considerations. International Journal of Oncological Nursing and Practices. 2025; 03(01):15-20. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijonnp/article=2025/view=0

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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 03
Issue 01
Received 19/12/2024
Accepted 26/02/2025
Published 12/05/2025
Publication Time 144 Days
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