What steps are recommended when receiving hazardous drugs from suppliers?

• A. Open package immediately and compare to order
• B. Inspect packaging for integrity, document receipt, separate from non-HD, and verify against order; report damaged containers
• C. Store with non-HD until checked
• D. Label as hazardous only if visibly damaged

Answer: (B)

The main concept is establishing a safe, documented receiving process for hazardous drugs that protects staff and ensures correct inventory. The recommended steps focus on checking the outer packaging for integrity to catch leaks or compromises before handling, documenting the receipt to create a traceable record, separating hazardous drugs from non-hazardous items to prevent cross-contamination, and verifying the shipment against the purchase order to confirm correct items and quantities. Reporting any damaged containers ensures hazards are addressed promptly and that the supplier is alerted for replacement while safeguarding others who may handle the drug next.

Opening packages immediately, storing hazardous drugs with non-hazardous items before inspection, or labeling only if damage is visible all fail to establish a safe, controlled receiving process. Proper practice is to inspect, document, segregate, and verify up front, with damage promptly reported.