When preparing cytotoxic medications, which of the following must be used?

When preparing cytotoxic medications, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and aseptic technique is essential to ensure both the safety of the healthcare provider and the integrity of the medication being prepared. Cytotoxic drugs can be highly toxic, posing risks to those who handle them, including risks of absorption through the skin or inhalation. Therefore, PPE such as gloves, gowns, masks, and goggles must be used to minimize exposure.

Aseptic technique is equally important, as it helps prevent contamination of the medication and ensures that the preparation is conducted in a sterile environment. This is critical for maintaining patient safety, as any contamination can lead to severe complications upon administration.

In contrast, conventional gloves and masks alone may not provide sufficient protection due to the potential for permeation by cytotoxic agents. Regular lab coats do not offer the level of protection required when handling these hazardous substances. The fact that no special equipment is necessary is a misleading assertion since stringent safety measures are a key part of working with cytotoxic medications.