[Survey of Anticancer Drug Exposure to Attendant Families in Pediatric Medical Centers]

The occupational exposure to hazardous drugs(HD)has already been investigated; however, the actual exposure of the attendant family members of patients with childhood cancer has remained unknown. Here, we analyzed cyclophosphamide (CPM)exposure in attendant family members and the environment after the administration of CPM to patients with pediatric cancer. CPM of 320(8.39-1,510)ng from infant-families and 0(0-58.4)ng from adolescent-families were detected(p= 0.01). The exposure of infant-families was significantly greater than those of adolescent-families. In addition, CPM were detected in the hot water after bathing the infant, underwear, and sheets. We elucidated that the exposures take place through body fluid and excretions of the children. In the field of childhood cancer, HD exposure measures should be taken according to the age of the child to minimize health damage to medical personnel, family members, and other children who share the room. Nurses are recommended to educate the patients and their family members about preventing exposure to HD in pediatric medical centers.