Medical professionals face numerous risks in their daily work. One sometimes overlooked danger that can have profound effects is injuries from sharp objects.
These injuries occur when needles, scalpels or other sharp medical instruments accidentally puncture your skin. Understanding the possible risks and available safety measures can help you advocate for your well-being in the healthcare field.
The risks of sharps injuries
Sharps injuries can have severe consequences for medical workers. Here are some of the main risks you should be aware of:
- You may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C or other infections
- Potential for long-term health complications
- Emotional stress and anxiety following an injury
- Possible career interruptions due to treatment or recovery
These risks can have catastrophic and long-term effects on your career and personal health. However, you can take precautions to avoid sharps injuries in your workplace.
Safe practices
There are many ways a sharps injury can happen, such as when trying to restrain a patient, when disposing of used sharps or even in the middle of use. By practicing proper safety measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of sharps injuries. Consider the following prevention tips:
- Always use safety-engineered devices when available
- Dispose of sharps in designated containers immediately after use
- Avoid recapping needles by hand
- Maintain awareness of your surroundings and communicate with colleagues
These guidelines can help you create a safer work environment for yourself and your coworkers.
Sharps injuries pose a serious threat to medical workers, but with proper knowledge and precautions, you can minimize the risks. If you have suffered a sharps injury at your job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation to cover medical expenses and lost wages.