Safer needles

Overcoming resistance to the use of engineering controls to prevent needlestick injuries

Summary:

By 2013, the EU sharps and needlestick directive will require the implementation of a range of measures to reduce risks to healthcare workers from exposure to bloodborne viruses. Dr Blánaid Hayes describes the successful introduction of engineering controls at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin.

NEEDLESTICK injuries continue to pose a significant risk to healthcare workers. The risk of acquiring bloodborne viral infection is low, but not negligible ….

Dr Blánaid Hayes is a consultant in occupational medicine at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, and is national specialty director for occupational medicine.

Author: Hayes B

Tags case study healthcare worker needlestick oh policies risk assessment sharps

Occupational Health at Work October/November 2012 (vol. 09/3) pp22-25

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