Time to Read:
About 1 minute
This information is a quick guide for what to do if your chemotherapy medication leaks or spills.
Step 1: Clamp
- Put on 2 pairs of disposable gloves.
- Put on a disposable face mask.
- Clamp the tubing.
- If you have a pump, turn it off.
Step 2: Contain
- Put the chemo container and tubing in a plastic bag.
- Put clothes, bed sheets, and towels that have chemo on them in another plastic bag. If you cannot wash them right away, seal the bag.
- Soak up the spill with paper towels.
Step 3: Clean
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Clean up the spill.
- Wash the area with dish soap or laundry detergent and water.
- Put dirty paper towels and cleaning supplies in the plastic bag with the chemo.
- If the chemo got on your skin, wash the area with soap and water.
- Wash your clothing, bed sheets, and towels in hot water. Do not wash them with any other items.
- Take off your gloves. Put them in the bag with the chemo. Seal the bag tightly. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
Step 4: Call
Call your doctor’s office right away for more instructions.
If you’re not sure what number to call, call 212-639-2000.
Spill Kit
Make a spill kit that has the supplies below. Keep the kit where you can easily reach it.
Supplies
- 2 pairs of disposable gloves.
- 1 disposable facemask.
- Paper towels or an absorbent towel that can be thrown away.
- Dish soap or laundry detergent.
- 2 plastic bags that seal (1 gallon size or larger).