Understanding and Managing Needle-Stick and Sharps Injuries

Needle-stick and sharps injuries pose significant health risks in various settings, potentially leading to the transmission of infections. This guide provides essential information on prevention, first aid, and subsequent steps following an injury.

What Are Needle-Stick and Sharps Injuries?

Definition: Injuries caused by needles or sharp objects that have been in contact with another person, posing a risk of infection. Sharps injuries extend to objects like scales, lancets, broken glass, or medical equipment.

Risks and Consequences

Infection Transmission: When a sharp object that has been in contact with someone else's body fluids cuts another person, it can inject infectious agents directly into the bloodstream.

Broader Impact: Such injuries are not only prevalent in the healthcare sector but also in industries like dentistry, tattooing, beauty, vehicle recovery, cleaning services, and hotels, among others.

First Aid for Needle-Stick and Sharps Injuries

• Encourage Bleeding: Prompt the wound to bleed, preferably under running water.
• Clean the Wound: Wash thoroughly with soap and water without scrubbing.
• Avoid Sucking: Do not suck on the wound.
• Cover the Wound: Dry and dress the wound with a waterproof plaster or dressing.

Seeking Medical Advice

Immediate Action: Seek urgent medical attention by visiting the nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department or contact your workplace's Occupational Health service.

The medical professional will assess the risk, inquire about the incident, and may conduct tests or provide specific treatments based on the level of infection risk.

Treatment and Prevention

Potential Treatments: Depending on the risk assessment, treatments may include antibiotics, vaccination against hepatitis B, or HIV prevention measures like post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

Preventive Measures: Proper handling and disposal of needles and sharps are crucial to avoid such injuries.

Sectors at Risk

Variety of Settings: Beyond healthcare, sectors like tattoo parlours, beauty salons, and even locations where illegal drug use occurs are at risk of needle-stick and sharps injuries.