Analysis of a Standardized Approach to Healthcare Worker Hazardous Medication Surveillance: Lessons learned and future enhancements.

Breeher, Laura; Newcomb, Richard; Hanson, Kristine; Hainy, Caitlin; Fowler, LuAnn; Hoyer, Kelsey; Abbas, Alzhraa; Severson, Krista et al. · J Occup Environ Med · 2026

cross_sectional · Level IV

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Abstract

To evaluate the effectiveness of a standardized hazardous medication surveillance program and identify occupational factors associated with adverse health outcomes among healthcare workers (HCWs). We analyzed data from 2,625 HCWs enrolled in a multi-site surveillance program (2020-2022). Participants completed a standardized questionnaire and underwent complete blood count testing. Exposure was categorized by weekly time handling hazardous medications. Associations were evaluated using univariate and multivariable analyses. Higher exposure (>8 hours/week) was associated with increased symptom reporting, hazardous medication spills, and adverse reproductive outcomes. Female sex, older age, and spill exposure independently predicted symptom reporting and reproductive outcomes. No significant association was observed between exposure intensity and abnormal blood counts. Questionnaire-based surveillance effectively identified exposure-related health risks, whereas routine complete blood count testing showed limited utility.