Needlestick injuries aren't funny. A needlestick injury can raise your chance of being exposed to a wide range of harmful and highly infectious germs, therefore you should know what to do if you get stuck. Even in the greatest of circumstances and when professionals do their utmost to avoid needlestick injuries, they can and do occur. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, disposable syringes, followed by suture needles, are the most common instruments involved in needlestick or sharps injuries.
Increased Awareness Minimizes Needlestick Injuries
While mishaps may occur, one of the most effective methods to prevent needlestick injuries in the first place is through good training and awareness. According to one study, increased awareness about sharps disposal compliance helps to improve healthcare safety. The study discovered that with proper training and informative posters in place, the percentage of overfilled and noncompliant sharps containers decreased dramatically. Despite these advancements, it is estimated that over 300,000 healthcare professionals are wounded in needlestick or sharps-related incidents each year. Depending on the scenario and type of exposure, all healthcare personnel must understand what to do if they are trapped. Documenting needlestick injuries also guarantees compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Needlestick injuries must be reported per Standard 1904.8.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Needlestick Injury
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends taking the following procedures immediately after a needlestick injury or probable exposure to a patient's blood or bodily fluid. The steps depend on the location and type of exposure:
Wash the needlestick area with soap and water.
Irrigate the eyes completely with salty, clean water, and rinse thoroughly.
Flush portions of the nose, mouth, or skin with water.
Following that, notify supervisors of the situation right away. Some healthcare providers delay reporting the incident because they are too busy or want to downplay the severity. Some people avoid reporting an incident right away because they are embarrassed or afraid. However, if you suspect you have been exposed to HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or other contaminants, you should seek medical attention and treatment. Post-exposure prophylaxis and care is essential. This protects not just the injured healthcare practitioner, but also others from possible harm.
It is critical to understand and follow facility rules for reporting exposures, but do not wait to get tested or begin preventative treatment. If a professional is harmed by a needlestick injury and may have been exposed to hepatitis B or C, they will be tested and vaccinated. Vaccination is not necessary, but it is strongly advised and encouraged. It is also suggested that these persons undergo post-vaccination testing.
Trihaz Solutions Promotes Needlestick Prevention Procedures
Trihaz is committed to not just delivering medical waste management services to healthcare providers across the country, but also to developing products and methods that improve healthcare professional safety, particularly in the prevention of needlestick and sharps accidents. Compliance is critical. For more information on our products and services that assist in decreasing needlestick injuries, please contact one of our expert representatives now. 
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