Infection control is a critical aspect of sharp safety in hospitals. It is essential to implement best practices in infection control in order to prevent the spread of disease and infection from one patient to another, as well as to protect healthcare workers from the risk of needlestick injuries and bloodborne pathogens.
One of the key components of infection control is proper hand hygiene. This includes frequent handwashing with soap and water, and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Healthcare workers should also wear gloves when coming into contact with patients, particularly when performing invasive procedures or handling medical sharps.
Another important aspect of infection control is the proper handling and disposal of medical sharps. This includes the use of safety-engineered devices, such as safety needles, and the proper disposal of used sharps in puncture-resistant containers. The use of safety-engineered devices can significantly reduce the risk of needlestick injuries among healthcare workers.
In addition to proper hand hygiene and the use of safety-engineered devices, it is important to implement proper cleaning and disinfection protocols in order to prevent the spread of infection. This includes cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces and equipment that come into contact with patients, as well as properly laundering linens and clothing.
Another important aspect of infection control is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes gloves, gowns, masks, and goggles, which are used to protect healthcare workers from exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials. PPE should be used in accordance with OSHA regulations and manufacturer’s instructions, and should be properly removed and discarded after each use.
In addition to the above-mentioned best practices, it is important to have a protocol in place for the management of blood and body fluids, as well as for the handling of contaminated laundry.
Finally, it is important to have a protocol in place for the management of sharps injuries and exposure incidents. This includes the proper reporting of incidents, as well as the provision of prompt medical evaluation and follow-up.
