HD training and competency should be reviewed every?

• A. Every 6 months
• B. Every 24 months
• C. Every 18 months
• D. Every 12 months

Answer: (D)

Regular, ongoing training and competency checks for hazardous drugs are essential to keep everyone safe and ensure handling practices stay up to date. The standard interval is an annual review, often implemented to align with regulatory expectations and institutional policies. This yearly refresher helps incorporating updates to policies, new drugs, changes in procedures, and any changes in PPE or engineering controls. It also provides a structured time to verify skills through competency assessments or practice demonstrations, reducing the risk of exposure during preparation, administration, and waste handling. If there are updates to procedures, new safety alerts, or introduction of new hazardous drugs, retraining should occur sooner, but the yearly cycle serves as the baseline to maintain consistent safety standards.