Rhode Island Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence (MPJE) Practice Exam

Within what range (in inches of water column) must the negative pressure in a chemo room be maintained?

1. -0.01 to -0.03

2. -0.05 to -0.07

3. -0.10 to -0.15

4. -0.20 to -0.25

The correct answer is: -0.01 to -0.03

The correct range for maintaining negative pressure in a chemotherapy room is crucial for ensuring the safety of both healthcare workers and patients by preventing the escape of hazardous substances. The specified range of -0.01 to -0.03 inches of water column indicates a very slight negative pressure relative to the surrounding areas, which is designed to effectively contain any contaminants generated during the handling of chemotherapy agents. In a chemotherapy room, it's essential to have controlled airflow that prevents harmful vapors or particles from escaping into other areas of the facility. The selected range helps to establish a balance that is tight enough to contain potentially hazardous materials while also preventing excessive negative pressure that could compromise the structural integrity of the room or disturb patient comfort. Other options reflect greater negative pressures which could be excessive for maintaining necessary containment and could pose risks such as impacting the proper ventilation and airflow control needed in a healthcare setting. Therefore, the choice of a range around -0.01 to -0.03 reflects best practices in the handling of chemotherapy agents, demonstrating an understanding of environmental safety standards in healthcare facilities.