PPE for Chemotherapy: What You Need to Protect Yourself and Others

When handling PPE for chemotherapy, personal protective equipment designed to shield healthcare workers from toxic drug exposure during cancer treatment. Also known as chemotherapy safety gear, it’s not optional—it’s the bare minimum to keep you safe every day. Chemotherapy drugs don’t just target cancer cells; they can damage healthy tissue too. Even small amounts of spilled liquid, aerosols, or contaminated surfaces can enter your body through skin contact, inhalation, or accidental ingestion. This isn’t theoretical—studies show nurses and pharmacists who skip proper PPE have higher rates of reproductive issues, skin rashes, and long-term organ damage.

That’s why gloves, double-layered, chemotherapy-rated gloves made of nitrile or neoprene to block drug absorption are the first line of defense. You don’t use regular exam gloves—those tear too easily. Then there’s gowns, disposable, lint-free gowns with closed backs and elastic cuffs that prevent drug seepage. They’re not just for show; they’re required when mixing, administering, or cleaning up spills. Eye protection and masks aren’t optional either. Splashes happen. Vapors from IV bags can linger. A simple face shield or safety goggles can stop a chemical burn before it starts.

And it’s not just about what you wear—it’s about how you use it. Changing gloves between tasks, double-gloving when handling vials, and never reusing gear are basic rules that still get ignored. Hospitals with strict PPE protocols see 70% fewer exposure incidents. It’s not about fear—it’s about control. You’re handling some of the most potent chemicals in medicine. If you wouldn’t touch them barehanded, why would you risk it with anything less than full protection?

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how to pick the right gear, avoid common mistakes, and understand what happens when safety slips—even for a second. These aren’t theory pieces. They’re written by people who’ve seen the fallout of skipped steps. You’ll learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to make sure you—and your team—stay protected every single day.