Enhancing Staff Safety Through New Medication Handling Technology

Headwaters Health Care Centre is taking further steps to protect staff who handle hazardous medications, including chemotherapy drugs, with the addition of a new piece of equipment, the BD PhaSeal™ Optima System.

The BD PhaSeal™ Optima System is a closed system transfer device (CSTD) that creates an airtight, leak-proof connection throughout the medication process, from preparation in the pharmacy to administration in patient care areas. By maintaining a fully closed system, the device helps prevent hazardous drugs or vapours from escaping into the environment and reduces the risk of contaminants entering the medication pathway.

The use of closed system transfer devices is widely recognized as an important safety measure in healthcare settings where hazardous drugs are handled. Repeated exposure to these medications can pose health risks for healthcare workers, particularly those who work with them daily. This new system helps reduce occupational exposure while supporting safe and consistent medication handling practices.

“The use of the BD PhaSeal™ Optima System is critical to protecting both our oncology nurses and pharmacy teams who handle hazardous drugs every day,” says Tania Alexander, Manager, Ambulatory Care. “By maintaining a fully closed system from drug preparation to administration, we significantly reduce the risk of occupational exposure while supporting a safer, more consistent standard of care. This is an important step in prioritizing staff safety while maintaining excellence in patient treatment.”

“The introduction of the BD PhaSeal™ Optima System is a significant advancement for our pharmacy team in safely handling hazardous medications. By maintaining a closed system throughout the preparation process, we are reducing the risk of exposure and reinforcing best practices in compounding. This not only enhances staff safety but also supports the delivery of high-quality, reliable care for our patients,” says Amrita Gujral, Manager, Pharmacy.

This investment reflects Headwaters’ ongoing commitment to creating a safe working environment for staff while continuing to deliver high-quality patient care.