Investigation of occupational safety in oncology nurses

Abstract

Objective. This study aimed to examine the occupational safety of oncology nurses. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the risks faced by oncology nurses in the units they work in and occupational safety. The data of the study were collected between April and October 2020 using an online questionnaire prepared by the researchers in line with the literature. The sample for the study consisted of 117 oncology nurses who voluntarily participated in the study and filled out the questionnaire completely. Results. More than half of the participants stated that they did not find occupational safety practices sufficient and were not given additional rights or psychological support given the risks of exposure. Conclusions. The study concluded that to improve occupational safety in oncology nurses, the physical conditions of the working environment should be improved, and up-to-date oncology and occupational safety training should be given regularly.

Keywords: nurse; occupational exposure; occupational safety; oncology.