1 Importance of Safety Devices used in Healthcare Facilities ALHE 4060 DR. MASINI Rachel Hammons CLT, NCA

2 Importance of Safety Devices used in Healthcare Facilities ALHE 4060 DR. MASINI Rachel Hammons CLT, NCA

3 Contaminated needle sticks happen in all areas of the healthcare field Surgery Outpatient labs Hospitals Opthamology Home Healthcare Environmental services

4 Steps to take if a needle stick occurs Immediately wash the wound with soap and water. Notify supervisor and start reporting process Identify patient in question Test both patient and employee for HIV,Hep B, Hep C

5 Steps to take continued Consent forms need to be signed. Report injury to employee services Employee is sent to physician for counseling and treatment Document occurrence

6 Occurance of needle stick injuries

7 Healthcare agencies Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) –Bloodborne Pathogen Standard –employee training and continuing education Center for Disease Control (CDC)

8 Safety devices Safety scalpel Safety-Lok needle with tubing known as the “butterfly” luer adapters needles with safety guards Lancets

9 Protective equipment gloves lab coats goggles gowns masks

10 Selecting safety devices Simple and obvious in operation Cost effective Keep employees involved in selection Compare suppliers check around to see what other facilities are using

11 Reducing needle stick injuries Manufacturers need to continue researching ideas, which could make for a safer working environment. Employees need to be trained correctly on how to activate the safety devices and proper disposal of used needles. Both employee and employer need continuing education

12 Different needles can cause injury hypodermic needles needles used in IV delivery systems blood collection needles suture needles lancets

13 Examples of Safety Devices

14 Important reminders Never recap a contaminated needle Put all dirty sharps devices into designated containers Never overfill or stick your hand into a biohazard container