Answer:
A biological safety cabinet (BSC) is typically used to safely prepare chemotherapy drugs. These cabinets provide a sterile environment and protect the user from exposure to hazardous drugs.
Explanation:
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Here's how a BSC works:
1. **Enclosed Workspace:** A BSC is typically made of stainless steel and has a transparent front panel made of glass or acrylic. This enclosure helps prevent the escape of hazardous materials into the surrounding environment.
2. **HEPA Filtration:** BSCs are equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that remove airborne particles, including bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants, from the airflow within the cabinet. This helps maintain a sterile working environment.
3. **Airflow System:** BSCs have a specialized airflow system that ensures air moves from the cleanest area (inside the cabinet) to the least clean area (outside the cabinet). This prevents contamination of the work surface and protects the user from exposure to hazardous materials.
4. **Protective Measures:** BSCs often feature arm-length gloves attached to the front panel, allowing the user to manipulate materials inside the cabinet without directly touching them. Additionally, some BSCs have UV lamps that can be used to sterilize the interior surfaces when not in use.
When preparing chemotherapy drugs, pharmacists and healthcare professionals use BSCs to handle the drugs in a controlled and safe manner, minimizing the risk of exposure to themselves and others. This helps ensure the safety of both the individuals handling the drugs and the patients receiving them.
