What Is the Risk of Getting HIV From a Needlestick Injury?

CDC Study Highlights the Differences in Perceived and Actual Risk

Needlestick injuries—as well as any percutaneous injury that can expose a person to tainted blood or body fluids—have long been a concern to both healthcare workers and the public at large.

Many of the fears have been fueled by media reports which either overstate the risk of acquiring HIV through needlestick injuries or spotlight cases in which victims are reported to be “living in fear” after having received such exposure (including much-reported incident in 2013 where a Michigan woman sued Etihad Airways after puncturing herself on discarded hypodermic needle left in a seatback pocket).1

 

While the perception of risk may be high in cases of needlestick injuries, recent analyses from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that the actual risk may be far lower—so low, in fact, that it can now be considered rare.

Questioning the “Three Out of a Thousand” Estimate

In a popularly referenced 1989 study, researchers suggested that the risk of acquiring HIV from a single needlestick injury involving HIV-contaminated blood was around 0.32 percent, or roughly three cases out of every 1,000 injuries.

For complete article click here

Passive Safety Needles: Elevating the Safety of Healthcare Providers with HTL-Strefa’s DropSafe Sicura

Learn how passive safety needles like the HTL-Strefa’s Sicura improve healthcare safety and reduce needlestick injuries for healthcare workers.

Improving occupational safety for healthcare providers has long been a priority in the healthcare industry, and specifically the prevention of needlestick injuries remains a key area of focus. Needlestick injuries continue to pose a serious threat to healthcare workers despite the widespread adoption of medical sharps with manually activated safety mechanisms currently available. The question of what can be done to further reduce needlestick injuries has led to the development of new innovations like passive safety needles, designed to minimize these risks through an automatic and foolproof safety mechanism.   In this article, we will explore the value of passive safety needles, focusing on how HTL-Strefa’s new Sicura passive safety needle stands out as an effective solution for healthcare providers providing injections.

 What Are Passive Safety Needles?

A passive safety needle is designed with an automatic safety mechanism that activates as soon as the needle is used. Unlike traditional needles or even some active safety needles that require healthcare workers to manually engage the safety features, passive safety needles are engineered to immediately activate post-injection without any extra steps required by the healthcare provider.

HTL-Strefa’s Sicura passive safety needle is the first passive safety needle available on the market. Once the needle has been used, its protective shield automatically covers the needle, reducing the chance of accidental needlestick injuries and helping to keep healthcare providers safe from potential bloodborne pathogens.

 The Importance of Passive Safety Needles in Healthcare

Reducing the incidence of needlestick injuries is a critical concern in healthcare environments. These injuries are not just harmful to the individuals who suffer them but also carry a high financial and emotional cost for healthcare facilities. The use of passive safety needles like the HTL-Strefa’s Sicura significantly mitigates these risks by providing a reliable, easy-to-use solution that helps ensure the safety of all involved.

By utilizing passive safety needles, healthcare workers can carry out their tasks with more confidence and fewer interruptions, as these needles streamline the injection process,  provide automatic safety after use, and better ensure safe disposal.

 The Value of HTL-Strefa Sicura Passive Safety Needles

# 1. Automatic Needle Protection

The standout feature of the Sicura passive safety needle is its automatic safety mechanism. After an injection is administered, the needle is immediately covered by a protective, transparent shield without requiring the user to manually activate any safety feature. This automatic protection greatly reduces the likelihood of needlestick injuries caused by human error or distraction, creating a safer working environment for medical staff.

# 2. Compliance with Safety Standards

Regulatory bodies such as OSHA and various health organizations worldwide have strict standards for needlestick prevention. By using a passive safety needle like Sicura, healthcare facilities can easily meet or exceed these safety standards. Implementing these passive safety needles can not only protect healthcare providers, but also downstream employees, to help maintain compliance with workplace safety regulations.

# 3. Ease of Use and Training

One of the great advantages of Sicura is that it requires minimal training. Healthcare providers can continue to use the injection technique with which they are comfortable. The passive safety mechanism makes for a consistent injection experience, regardless of the experience level of the healthcare worker, as the safety feature is automatic. The intuitive design of the needle means that the entire injection process is seamless, ensuring smooth workflow and minimal disruptions during patient care.

# 4. Cost-Effectiveness

Data supports that the potential savings from eliminating needlestick injuries are substantial. A product like Sicura can greatly reduce the risk of needlestick injuries meaning fewer incidents requiring medical follow-ups, treatments, and potential lawsuits. The automatic safety features provide not only cost savings from injury prevention but also improve overall workflow efficiency.

HTL-Strefa Sicura: A Closer Look

Sicura is the first and only passive safety needle available in North America. Here is why it stands out:

  • Innovative Design

Sicura is equipped with a fully automatic, retractable shield that covers the needle as soon as it is withdrawn from the patient. This shield provides immediate protection from accidental pricks, eliminating exposure to contaminated needles.

  • Single-Handed Operation

Sicura can be operated with just one hand, making it convenient for healthcare professionals who may need to steady a patient with their free hand. The single-handed operation also simplifies the injection process, allowing for a smooth workflow.

  • Smooth Injection and Sharp Needle Tip

Sicura features a high-quality needle designed for smooth injection and minimal discomfort for the patient. The needle tip is finely sharpened to ensure ease of penetration, and the protective sheath engages without affecting the quality of the injection.

  • Compatibility and Versatility

Sicura is compatible with standard luer slip and luer lock syringes, making it a versatile choice for various medical applications. It is available in a 25G x 1” size that is most common for subcutaneous/intramuscular injections, with multiple sizes becoming available in 2025, allowing healthcare workers to choose the appropriate gauge and length for different procedures.

  • Validated Success in Large-Scale Immunization programs

Retail pharmacies that administer millions of vaccinations each year throughout North America were early adopters of Sicura for their best-in-class immunization programs. Many national and regional retail pharmacy chains made the decision to move away from the active safety products and have successfully used and benefitted from Sicura’s safety benefits in the 2024-2025 flu season.

How Passive Safety Needles Like Sicura Compare to Active Safety Needles

Active safety needles are designed to protect users by requiring them to manually engage a safety feature after use. While this is still an improvement over traditional needles, it leaves room for human error. Data shows that most needlestick injuries occur when the healthcare provider does not successfully engage the manual safety feature prior to safe disposal.

Passive safety needles like Sicura remove this concern by removing the possibility of human error, through automatic activation of the safety mechanism. There is no need to remember to retract a needle or engage a shield—the needle’s safety feature engages passively, making the process both safer and easier.

 The Benefits of Adopting Passive Safety Technology

  1. Enhanced Safety for Medical Staff

Sicura and medical devices with passive safety technology are designed with healthcare worker safety as a top priority. Passive safety mechanisms eliminate the risk of accidental pricks due to improper or delayed needle handling after an injection.

  1. Reduced Work-Related Injuries and Costs

Passive safety needles help reduce workplace injuries, thereby minimizing the costs associated with post-exposure treatments, tests, and potential loss of work time. These savings make passive safety needles a cost-effective choice for healthcare facilities looking to improve safety standards.

  1. Improved Patient Safety and Comfort

While protecting healthcare workers is a primary goal, passive safety needles also enhance patient safety by ensuring that each injection is administered cleanly and securely, while also obscuring visibility to the needle for patients who struggle with injection anxiety.

 FAQs

What makes Sicura different from other safety needles?

Sicura is the first and only passive safety needle, meaning its safety feature activates automatically without any extra steps from the healthcare worker. This reduces the risk of needlestick injuries and makes it easy to use.

How do passive safety needles improve workplace safety?

Passive safety needles may automatically cover or secure the needle after use, preventing accidental pricks and exposure to potentially contaminated needles.

Do passive safety needles require special training?

No, one of the benefits of passive safety needles is that they are designed for easy use. HTL-Strefa’s Sicura, for example, automatically engages its safety mechanism, requiring minimal additional training for healthcare workers.

Can the HTL-Strefa Sicura be used with all types of syringes?

Yes, the HTL-Strefa Sicura is compatible with standard luer slip and luer lock syringes, making it a versatile option for various medical procedures.

Are passive safety needles available in different sizes?

Yes, passive safety needles like the HTL-Strefa Sicura will be available in various sizes and gauges beginning in 2025, suitable for different types of injections and patient needs.

HTL-Strefa’s Sicura passive safety needle represents a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare safety. By adopting passive safety needles, healthcare facilities can protect workers from needlestick injuries, reduce costs associated with workplace injuries, and improve overall patient care. These benefits make passive safety needles like Sicura an invaluable tool for any medical setting striving to provide the best safety standards. 

For a PDF file of this article click link. Dropsafe Sicura

Ron Stoker

Executive Director

ISIPS

International Sharps Injury Prevention Society Announces 23rd Annual Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month in December 2024

The International Sharps Injury Prevention Society (ISIPS) proudly announces the launch of the 23rd Annual Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month, scheduled to take place throughout December 2024. This vital initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of needlestick and sharps injuries and implementing effective prevention strategies to protect healthcare workers around the globe. Sharps injuries pose a significant risk to healthcare professionals, leading to possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Despite advancements in safety technology, these injuries remain prevalent, underscoring the necessity for continued education, advocacy, and commitment to safety in healthcare settings.

“Every needle stick represents a potential health crisis for a dedicated healthcare worker,” said Ron Stoker, Executive Director of ISIPS. “Our goal for Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month is to spotlight this critical issue and empower healthcare facilities to adopt and implement best practices in sharps safety. Sharps injuries are a preventable hazard that continues to affect healthcare workers globally, Our mission is to advocate for the adoption of safety-engineered devices and best practices to protect those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.”

ISIPS is honored to collaborate with healthcare organizations, advocacy groups, and industry leaders to amplify efforts to safeguard healthcare workers. As we approach December, ISIPS invites healthcare professionals, administrators, and the general public to join this crucial conversation about sharps injury prevention. Together, we can work toward fostering a safer environment for all those dedicated to serving our communities. For more information about the 23rd Annual Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month and to access resources, visit www.isips.org (http://www.isips.org) and follow us on social media.
 
About ISIPS: The International Sharps Injury Prevention Society is a pioneering organization dedicated to the prevention of sharps injuries among healthcare professionals worldwide. Through advocacy, education, and research, ISIPS strives to enhance safety protocols and improve the working conditions for those on the front lines of healthcare.
 
Contact:
Ron Stoker
Executive Director
International Sharps Injury Prevention Society (ISIPS)
Phone: (801) 893-5141
Email: ron@isips.org
Website: www.isips.org

Safety Needles And Syringes Market | Exploring Current Trends and Growth Status for | 2024-2031

Safety Needles And Syringes Market Definition, With Current Market Values
The safety needles and syringes market refers to the segment of the healthcare industry focused on the production and distribution of needles and syringes designed with safety mechanisms to reduce the risk of needlestick injuries. These products are commonly used for drug delivery, vaccination, and medical procedures. The global market value for safety needles and syringes was estimated at approximately USD 6.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2024 to 2030, driven by the increasing demand for safer healthcare solutions and advancements in needle technology. For more Info click here.

Measles cases surge worldwide, infecting 10.3 million people in 2023

Worldwide, there were an estimated 10.3 million cases of measles in 2023, a 20% increase from 2022, according to new estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Inadequate immunization coverage globally is driving the surge in cases.

Measles is preventable with two doses of the measles vaccine; yet more than 22 million children missed their first dose of the measles vaccine in 2023. Globally, an estimated 83% of children received their first dose of measles vaccine last year, while only 74% received the recommended second dose.

Coverage of 95% or greater of two doses of measles vaccine is needed in each country and community to prevent outbreaks and protect populations from one of the world’s most contagious human viruses.

“Measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other vaccine in the past 50 years,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “To save even more lives and stop this deadly virus from harming the most vulnerable, we must invest in immunization for every person, no matter where they live.”

“The number of measles infections are rising around the globe, endangering lives and health,” CDC Director Mandy Cohen said. “The measles vaccine is our best protection against the virus, and we must continue to invest in efforts to increase access.”

As a result of global gaps in vaccination coverage, 57 countries experienced large or disruptive measles outbreaks in 2023, affecting all regions except the Americas, and representing a nearly 60% increase from 36 countries in the previous year. The WHO African, Eastern Mediterranean, European, Southeast Asia and Western Pacific regions experienced a substantial upsurge in cases. Nearly half of all large or disruptive outbreaks occurred in the African region.

For more info click here.

Ron Stoker, MS, Executive Director of the International Sharps Injury Prevention Society (ISIPS), has extensive experience advocating for and implementing sharps safety measures across various healthcare settings.

 

Sharps Safety Redefined: How Surgilock® Products Elevate Efficiency and Minimize Risk in the OR

The operating room (OR) is the heart of surgical intervention, a space dedicated to saving lives. However, this critical environment also presents significant risks for staff, particularly related to sharps injuries. Needles, scalpels, and other sharp instruments can cause accidental punctures and cuts, potentially exposing healthcare workers to bloodborne pathogens. Sharps safety, therefore, becomes paramount in ensuring a safe and efficient surgical environment.

This article delves into the importance of sharps safety in the OR, focusing on the innovative solutions offered by MedicaLock (Medicalock.com). We will explore how their unique line of products, including Surgilock® Platforms, Mayo Stands, and Positioning Foam, contribute to a more secure and streamlined surgical workflow.

The Ever-Present Threat of Sharps Injuries

According to the International Sharps Injury Prevention Society (ISIPS), millions of sharps injuries occur among healthcare workers globally each year. These injuries not only pose a serious health risk but also lead to emotional distress, lost work time, and significant healthcare costs. The close proximity within the OR, coupled with the constant use of sharp instruments, creates a high-risk zone. Traditional practices like hand-to-hand passing of sharps contribute to accidental punctures.

 

Beyond the Basics: Sharps Safety Reimagined

While established practices like double gloving and neutral zone techniques remain crucial, Surgilock® products offer a new level of security by optimizing workflow and minimizing sharps handling:

  • Surgilock® Platforms: These adhesive polymer pads create a secure and sterile platform for holding commonly used instruments. This eliminates the need for constant handoffs and reduces the risk of accidental falls or contamination. Surgeons and nurses can readily access essential tools, streamlining procedures and minimizing unnecessary movement.
  • Surgilock® Mayo Stand: (Coming Soon) This innovative Mayo stand promises to revolutionize instrument organization within the sterile field. Imagine a customizable platform segmented for specific instruments, eliminating clutter, and facilitating easy access. This promotes a more organized workflow while minimizing the risk of sharps injuries during instrument selection.
  • Surgilock® Positioning Foam: Securing patients and limbs remains a crucial aspect of surgery. Surgilock® positioning foam offers a revolutionary solution. This disposable foam conforms to patient anatomy, providing secure positioning while minimizing the need for manual adjustments. This reduces the risk of accidental sharps contact for staff and promotes patient comfort throughout the procedure.

 

The Surgilock® Advantage: A Multifaceted Approach

Beyond individual product benefits, Surgilock® products foster a holistic approach to sharps safety:

  • Improved Efficiency: By minimizing unnecessary instrument handling and promoting organized workflows, Surgilock® products contribute to a more efficient surgical environment. This translates to shorter procedure times and potentially reduced costs.
  • Reduced Risk of Contamination: The security provided by Surgilock® platforms minimizes the risk of instruments touching unsterile surfaces. This maintains a cleaner surgical field, reducing the risk of infection for both patients and staff.
  • Enhanced Staff Well-being: By minimizing movement and reducing the need for direct sharps handling, Surgilock® products contribute to a less physically demanding environment for staff. Additionally, minimizing exposure risks promotes a safer work environment for all.

 

Collaboration is Key: Achieving Optimal Sharps Safety

It is important to remember that sharps safety goes beyond individual products. A successful approach requires collaboration:

  • Comprehensive Staff Training: Regular training on established safety protocols and the proper use of Surgilock® products equips staff to leverage their full potential.
  • Incident Reporting and Analysis: Encouraging staff to report all sharps injuries, even seemingly minor ones, allows for continuous improvement of safety measures.
  • Regular Safety Audits: Conducting routine audits of the OR helps ensure compliance with safety protocols and identify areas for improvement.

 

Investing in a Safer Future

By fostering a safety culture and adopting innovative solutions like those offered by MedicaLock, the healthcare industry can significantly lower the incidence of sharps injuries in the OR. Surgilock® products provide a valuable complement to existing safety measures, promoting a more secure and efficient surgical environment. Prioritizing sharps safety is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It requires continuous evaluation, adaptation, and employee engagement. By working together, we can create a safer future for all those who dedicate their lives to patient care in the OR.

For more information contact Isips.org, call or text 801-893-5141 or Medicalock at www.medicalock.com or 608-525-3630.

Ron Stoker, MS, Executive Director of the International Sharps Injury Prevention Society (ISIPS), has extensive experience advocating for and implementing sharps safety measures across various healthcare settings.

 

Droplet Micron: Now Available for More Medications and Over-the-Counter

We’re excited to share some big news about the Droplet Micron 34G x 3.5mm pen needle from HTL-Strefa, part of the MTD Group. The US Food & Drug Administration has expanded its approval, meaning Droplet Micron can now be used for more than just insulin. You can now use it for other medications like GLP-1s and more, making it a versatile option for many patients.

New Uses and Easier Access

Expanded Indication for Use: Droplet Micron is now approved for the “subcutaneous injection of drugs,” so it’s not just for insulin anymore. This opens up new treatment options and makes it easier for more patients to get the medications they need.

OTC Availability in the USA: With the regulatory changes, Droplet Micron will no longer be “prescription-only” in the USA. This means you can find it more easily in pharmacies and online (where state regulations allow). Look for Droplet Micron OTC on Amazon and soon at many national retailers.

Designed for Comfort

Droplet Micron is the shortest and thinnest pen needle available, designed to give you the best injection experience. Its advanced technology cuts the penetration force by up to 50%, often making injections less painful. Trusted by millions around the world and highly rated by users, Droplet Micron sets the standard for safe, reliable, and comfortable injections.

On a personal note – I have used these pen needles and I can hardly feel them when I am injecting insulin!  I love them!  -editor

For more information or to request samples, visit www.mydroplet.com

 

Sharps Safety in Oncology Nursing: A Critical Perspective

Handling sharps safely is paramount in oncology nursing due to the unique risks posed by chemotherapeutic agents and the frequent use of needles and other sharp instruments. Oncology nurses must navigate these hazards while providing compassionate care to vulnerable patients.

 The Unique Challenges in Oncology Nursing

Oncology nurses face a higher risk of sharps injuries due to the frequent administration of chemotherapeutic agents and other injectable treatments. These substances are hazardous and require meticulous handling to prevent accidental exposure, which can have serious health implications. Despite advancements in safety-engineered devices, the risk remains significant.

 The Global Context of Sharps Injuries

Sharps injuries are a global concern, transcending from high-income countries to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where resources are limited, and the endemic rates of blood-borne pathogens are higher. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that from 2019 to 2022, there were 2.8 million new cases of HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, highlighting the critical need for stringent infection control measures in all healthcare settings.  These statistics underscore the importance of continued efforts in infection control and prevention, particularly in healthcare settings where the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens through sharps injuries is significant.

 Sharps Safety in the Oncology Setting

In oncology, the risk of sharps injuries is compounded by the use of needles and other sharp instruments in chemotherapy administration. Nurses are at the frontline, often performing tasks that increase their risk of exposure. For instance, intramuscular and subcutaneous injections, which are common in oncology, are a primary source of needle stick injuries (NSIs).

 The Role of Safety-Engineered Devices

Despite the availability of safety-engineered devices, injuries still occur. According to the International Safety Center’s EPINet data, 33.3% of sharps injuries involved a safety device, and in 12.8% of these cases, the safety mechanism was properly activated. This underscores the need for ongoing training and vigilance in using these devices correctly.

 Regulatory and Safety Measures

The Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act, enacted in 2000, as well as OSHA’s Revised Bloodborne Standard mandates the use of safety-engineered sharp devices and requires healthcare facilities to maintain a sharps injury log and update their exposure control plans annually. This legislation provides a framework for preventing sharps injuries but requires robust implementation and adherence.

Training and Awareness

Continuous education and training in the proper use of safety devices and adherence to safety protocols are essential. Oncology nurses must stay informed about the latest safety technologies and practices to minimize their risk of injury. This includes understanding the correct disposal of sharps to protect not only themselves but also other healthcare workers and patients.

 Innovative Approach to Infusion

Innovations in administering oncologic solutions that aim to minimize sharps injuries are promising and diverse. Hear are some key developments:

  1. Needle-Free Injection Systems

Needle-free injection systems (NFIS) are designed to deliver medication through the skin without using needles. These devices use high-pressure to propel a fine stream of medication through the skin. Innovations in this technology could significantly reduce sharps injuries in oncology settings where frequent injections are necessary. Examples include jet injectors and microneedle patches.

  1. Closed System Transfer Devices (CSTDs)

CSTDs are engineered to prevent the escape of hazardous drugs into the environment during the drug preparation and administration processes. These systems can greatly reduce the risk of needlestick injuries and exposure to hazardous drugs. CSTDs have shown effectiveness in oncology, where handling of cytotoxic drugs is common.

  1. Smart Syringes

Smart syringes with passive safety features are a significant advancement in preventing needlestick injuries. These devices automatically engage safety mechanisms without requiring additional actions from the user, making them highly reliable in high-pressure environments. Passive safety features include auto-disable functionality after a single use, retractable needles that retract automatically upon completion of the injection, and integrated needle shields that deploy automatically to cover the needle. These innovations are particularly beneficial in settings where large volumes of injections are administered, as they minimize the risk of human error and ensure consistent protection for healthcare workers.

By reducing the need for manual activation of safety mechanisms, passive safety devices enhance compliance and safety, ensuring that protective measures are always in place. This approach contrasts with active safety devices, which rely on the user to manually engage the safety features, potentially leading to lapses in protection due to oversight or improper use. Therefore, the adoption of smart syringes with passive safety features is crucial for improving sharps safety in healthcare settings.

  1. Wearable Drug Delivery Devices

Wearable devices that deliver drugs transdermally or subcutaneously over extended periods can reduce the need for repeated injections. These devices can be particularly useful for chemotherapy administration, improving patient compliance and safety. Examples include insulin pumps adapted for chemotherapy drugs.

  1. Dissolvable Microneedles

Dissolvable microneedle patches for drug delivery are an emerging technology. These patches can administer drugs directly through the skin in a minimally invasive manner. They are designed to dissolve after the drug is delivered, eliminating the need for sharps disposal and reducing the risk of needlestick injuries.

  1. Automated Drug Delivery Systems

Automated systems, such as robotic drug compounding and administration units, can minimize human involvement in the preparation and delivery of oncologic drugs. These systems can ensure precision in dosage and reduce the risk of exposure and injury from handling sharps.

  1. Advanced Infusion Pumps

Modern infusion pumps with enhanced safety features can help in the precise administration of oncologic solutions while minimizing the need for frequent needle use. Innovations include smart pumps with dose error reduction systems (DERS) and closed-loop systems that automatically adjust the infusion rate.

  Conclusion

Sharps safety is a critical component of oncology nursing, requiring a combination of advanced safety devices, rigorous training, and adherence to safety protocols. By prioritizing these measures, oncology nurses can protect themselves and their patients from the dangers of sharps injuries and hazardous drug exposure.

Ron Stoker, MS, Executive Director of the International Sharps Injury Prevention Society (ISIPS), has extensive experience in advocating for and implementing sharps safety measures across various healthcare settings.

 

Alarming Surge in needlestick Injuries tackled with essential guide to proper medical waste disposal

 
Alarming surge in needlestick injuries tackled with essential guide to proper medical waste disposal

Results of a new survey by The Harris Poll reveal that many patients receive too many needlesticks in hospital procedures, which amplifies misconceptions and lack of awareness from Americans on the risks of common medical procedures.

The “Accepted But Unacceptable” Practice of Repeated Needlesticks
Needlesticks are an often-overlooked challenge but can be one of the most traumatic aspects of a patient’s hospital stay. More than half of Americans (51%) report some fear of needles, and of that group, a top reason is fear of needing multiple needle insertions (31%).

The survey findings reflect that this concern isn’t unwarranted: a shocking 11% of survey participants with recent hospital experience needed 10 or more sticks to obtain a single blood sample – and more than half required multiple needlestick attempts for a single procedure (59% for IVs and 71% for blood draws). Moreover, 77% of patients are unaware that regardless of their conditions, patients should expect no more than two needlestick attempts from one clinician.

Nurses Agree That Repetitive Needlesticks Negatively Impact Patient Care Delivery and Workflow
Unsurprisingly, the survey highlights nurses’ strong concern about the impact of repeated needlesticks on the patient care experience. Most nurses agree that repeated needlesticks negatively impact the patient experience and say that alternatives are needed to reduce the number of needlesticks patients encounter (92% and 91%, respectively).

More than just providing a better experience, nurses agree that delays to patient treatment caused by difficult venous access or fear of needles are a problem (89% and 84%, respectively), and 67% agree that issues related to vessel access consume too much time and contribute to workflow inefficiencies.

 

Source

Needlestick injuries common in trash and recycling facilities: report

Needlestick injuries common in trash and recycling facilities: report

Raleigh, NC — An estimated 781 to 1,484 needlestick-related injuries – a rate of 2.7 per 100 workers – occur annually at solid waste and recycling material recovery facilities, according to a recent report from the Environmental Research and Education Foundation and the Solid Waste Association of North America.

Researchers surveyed the owners of material recovery facilities in North America about needlestick occurrences at their facilities. Based on the 35 responses they received, the researchers determined that 53 percent of the facilities see needles daily or a few times a week, and more than half find needles mixed in with plastics.

Picking-line workers experienced the highest rate of needlestick-related incidents because of their direct contact with waste material. The researchers also found that needlestick-related injuries may account for 45 percent of all injuries at material recovery facilities.

Using feedback from the owners, the researchers recommend several needlestick safety tips for employers:

Use personal protective equipment.
Evaluate facility operations and equipment.
Promote community education on safe disposal methods, including placing needles and other sharps in properly labeled, rigid containers or using community drop-off sites, mail-back programs or special residential collection systems.

Source