Rx Note

Introduction Medical gloves are disposable gloves used during medical examinations and procedures to help prevent cross-contamination between caregivers and patients (an important component of personal protective equipment). Examination and Surgical Gloves There are 2 main types of medical gloves Examination - available as either sterile or non-sterile Surgical - have more precise sizing with a better precision and sensitivity and are made to a higher standard; generally sterile Material Gloves are made of different polymers, including Latex Nitrile rubber Polyvinyl chloride Neoprene To facilitate donning of gloves, powders have been used as lubricants for latex gloves. A common agent is corn starch, however, it is found to have potential side effects, such as inflammatory reactions, granulomas and postoperative adhesions. By today, healthcare systems in Germany, United Kingdom and United States had eliminated powdered gloves use. Chlorination is the most common alternative metho...

Introduction Aseptic technique is a skill in the compounding of sterile preparations that is independent of equipment [e.g. primary engineering control (PEC) and secondary engineering controls (i.e. cleanroom) ] and environment. Proper use of Laminar Airflow Workbench (LAFW) An LAFW should operate continuously when in use. Before use, all interior working surfaces of the LAFW must be cleaned from the cleanest part of the LAFW to dirtiest part with sterile 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or another disinfecting agent and a clean, nonshedding, lint-free wipe. The LAFW should be cleaned and disinfected frequently, including at the beginning of the wok shift, before the start of each batch, every 30 minutes during continuous compounding periods, when there are spills, and when there is known or suspected contamination from a lapse in the aseptic technique process. Nothing should touch the HEPA filter. Nothing should disrupt or block the unidirectional airflow between the high-efficiency pa...

Introduction Although chemotherapy is used to treat cancer, it also damages normal healthy cells, hence causing a series of side effects . Even so, in clinical decision, it is all about benefits vs risks. Different from a cancer patient, exposure to chemotherapy medicines not only provides no potential benefits, but it harms those care giver or health care professionals if coming in contact. Body Fluids In an overview, most chemotherapy medicines remain in body fluids for about 48-72 hours after each treatment (up to 7 days for certain chemotherapy medicines). Hence, it is important to take precautions in handling body fluids during this period. Body fluids include blood, urine (wee), faeces (poo) and vomit. As the rule of thumb, caregivers should wear throw-away gloves (ideally, 2 pairs) if they need to touch any of your body fluids. They should always wash their hands with warm water and soap afterward - even if they had gloves on. NOTE: Children and women who are pregnant or b...