It is defined as a disorder in which there is an injury caused by the needle which is infected.

What are the signs and symptoms of Needle stick injury?

It includes the redness, pain as well as swelling at the site.

What are the causes of Needle stick injury?

It includes the use of non sterile needles. The other important factor is the compliance.

How Needle stick injury can be treated?

If splashed with a bodily fluid, thoroughly irrigate the affected area cover the injured area with a bandage for protection.

There is no need to apply agents such as bleach to the injury.

Risk assessment

Report the incident to the practice principal/manager following first aid. Document as much of the following as possible to determine risk:

1. How did the injury occur?

2. What type of injury is it, and what is the extent of the injury?

3. What was the source of the sharp or bodily fluid?

4. How much of the source material came into contact with the affected person?

5. Was any protective clothing being used?

After initial risk assessment, seek further management and treatment
If appropriate, post-exposure treatment should be implemented as soon as possible

Injury management:

The affected person may wish to attend their usual doctor for further care

The following matters should be addressed by the treating doctor:
– Infection status of source material (blood)

– Counselling of the patient

– Blood testing to determine whether infection has occurred

– Hepatitis B immunity status of the patient (is a booster shot required?)

– Need for HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

– The practice must follow up the incident and make a final report

– Do practice procedures need to be reviewed as a result of the incident?

– Do arrangements need to be made with insurers?

24-Hour Needlestick Hotline phone 1800 804 823.

How Needle stick injury can be prevented?

It includes the avoidance of any irritating factor.