The most critical time for safety is after the blood collection procedure is completed; now you have a
contaminated sharp. Immediately activate the safety device.
The goals of Standard Precautions include 1) preventing contact between a patient's body fluids and health care personnel's mucous membranes (including conjunctivae), skin, and clothing; 2) preventing health care personnel from carrying potentially infectious material from one patient to another; and 3) avoiding unnecessary exposure to
contaminated sharp implements.
Such a design helps to ensure protection even if the dose is partially administered in circumstances where, for instance, a patient struggles so the needle is removed and healthcare workers or caregivers are exposed to a
contaminated sharp in a dangerous situation.
A large number of injuries by
contaminated sharp devices can be prevented by implementing suitable educational programs regarding disposal of sharp devices, and by using safe needle devices.
Acquiring a bloodborne virus following injury with a
contaminated sharp is one of the greatest.
"During the flooding, there's an increased risk of infection through potential cuts from
contaminated sharp objects, such as broken glass, wood, and other debris," warned Arafat.
Contaminated sharp objects can transmit bloodborne pathogens, such as human immunodeficiency (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses.
Safe-search technique training for, and in the handling of, potentially
contaminated sharp contraband, such as shanks, razor blades or tattoo guns, also is important.
In one instance, we identified a need to improve the way in which we handled and disposed of our
contaminated sharp glass, primarily pipettes.
"A
contaminated sharp could certainly be a lethal weapon," Weller said.