5. Sharps

Question 1

How can you prevent sharps injuries?

Answer 1

Keep sharps handling to a minimum
Dispose of used sharps directly after use
Do not recap/resheath used needles
Do not overfill sharps container
Use safety devices where available

Question 2

What are the rules regarding sharps containers?

Answer 2

Must be approved, puncture-proof containers.
NEVER retrieve articles or empty sharps containers.
Keep out of reach of children & vulnerable adults.
Close between uses.
Locate at waist height.
Must be secure on a flat surface.
Only fill it three quarters full.
Must be labelled with its source prior to disposal.
Use the handle to carry and hold it away from your body.

Question 3

What is the risk of contracting blood-borne viruses from a sharps injury?

Answer 3

Hep B - 1 in 3
Hep C - 1 in 30
HIV - 1 in 300
Hollow sharps (needles) are more likely to transmit than solid sharps (scalpels).
Dental needles are extremely fine and therefore not classed as hollow.

Question 4

In the scenario of a sharps injury, what is the procedure?

Answer 4

Stop what you’re doing.
Encourage bleeding by squeezing under warm water.
Wash with soap and water - do not scrub.
Cover site with a waterproof dressing.
Inform superior and complete accident/incident form.
Ensure item that caused injury is safely disposed of.
Report to occupational health or A&E according to your local policy.

Question 5

When do needlestick injuries occur?

Answer 5

51-75% occur after the procedure

Question 6

What are sharps?

Answer 6

Items that may cause laceration or puncture of the skin

e.g. needle, bur, teeth, scalpel, broken galss