Cat 2 Hazardous Meds at Home - Patient/Family Guide

Category 2 Hazardous Medications

AT HOME

A guide for patients and clients and their families

Providence Care Rev. January 2014 This material is available in French and accessible formats upon request to the Communications Department.

Cet outil est disponible en franรงais ou en support accessible sur demande au Service des communications.

www.providencecare.ca

AT HOME

1.... AT HOME - Category 2 Hazardous Medications

Now that you are going home there are things you can put into place to keep your environment safe for you and your family members.

Category 2 Hazardous Medications - AT HOME ...2

How do I dispose of contaminated gloves?

How should I store and handle my hazardous medications at home?

If a family member is pouring your medications, used gloves should be double-bagged, stored separately from your household garbage, away from the reach of children and pets. They can be disposed of as usual on regular garbage collection days.

Store hazardous medications in a childproof container, out of reach of children and pets.

Who needs to know I am taking this medication?

These medications should not be stored in the bathroom as moisture or humidity may damage them.

Check the label to see if it needs to be refrigerated or if it is light sensitive.

Any health personnel where you have appointments and tests who may potentially be required to handle your medications should be notified that you are taking a hazardous medication.

Wash your hands before and after handling.

Other important information

If a family member is pouring your medications, they should wear *gloves and wash their hands after glove removal.

If you are thinking about getting pregnant, discuss with your physician when it might be safe to plan a pregnancy.

Pregnant family members and pregnant people visiting your home should not handle these medications.

*If possible, wearing a pair of Nitrile gloves would be recommended. Ask your care provider where they can be purchased.

If your have further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask your care provider.