What type of gloves should be worn when handling antineoplastic drugs for safety?

When handling antineoplastic drugs, the use of nonpermeable latex gloves is crucial due to the hazardous nature of these medications. Antineoplastic drugs, which are used primarily in cancer treatment, can pose significant health risks through dermal absorption or inhalation. Nonpermeable materials ensure that these highly potent drugs do not penetrate the glove material, providing a protective barrier for the user.

Nonpermeable latex gloves are specifically designed to resist the absorption of chemicals, making them suitable for handling cytotoxic agents. In particular, these gloves form an effective barrier against the chemical properties of antineoplastic drugs, reducing the risk of contamination and exposure. This is essential in veterinary settings, where the safety of both the veterinary staff and the animals being treated is paramount.

While the other types of gloves listed may provide some degree of protection, they do not offer the same level of assurance against permeability and chemical exposure as nonpermeable latex gloves. Therefore, when considering the risks associated with handling antineoplastic drugs, the choice of nonpermeable latex gloves stands out as the best practice for ensuring safety.