Biosafety refers to the application of techniques and procedures to prevent personal injury from biohazard objects and agents, including needle stick injuries in hospitals. Individuals can get exposed to the fluid or blood in the syringe if they are not used and then disposed of correctly. Keep in mind the following when using medical needles:
- Do not bend the syringe.
- Dispose of needles and syringes properly.
- Never place the needles on the tray for others to pick up.
How to dispose of medical needles and syringes?
Many medical facilities have their own biohazard training course, that will teach you the correct way to discard medical needles and syringes so you can avoid needle stick injuries in hospitals. Usually, needles and syringes used in hospitals, intensive care units, and operating theaters are disposable, but you must ensure you follow the hospitals current disposal methods. Severe health risks are associated with blood and other body fluids contamination, including:
- Hepatitis B (HBV)
- Hepatitis C (HCV)
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
If dealing with medical needles and syringes at home, keep such medical equipment away from young children. Always discard the syringes quickly after use and dispose of them properly. Do not discard these sharp objects in the recycle bin. Also, follow these measures after using a syringe or needle:
- Cap the needle and syringe before disposing of.
- Dispose of used syringes correctly regardless what their content.
- Place both the needle and syringe (attached) in the disposal bag or container.
- Use biohazard bags to discard sharp objects including lancets, needles, and syringes.
Needle Stick Injuries and Punctures
Certain injuries and infections can occur while operating with medical needles. Always be attentive while using a sharp needle, syringe, or scalpel. Ensure that you have everything you need to hand nearby before starting the procedure, so keep movement around the ward to a minimum. Keep these measures in mind while using medical needles and syringes to avoid any incidental needle stick injuries in hospitals :
- Use a fresh syringe every time.
- Cap and discard the syringe after use.
- Use an alcohol swab before using a syringe.
- Only open the syringe while injecting the drug.
- Keep your vacutainer ready to transfer the sample.
- Immediately contact your supervisor and seek medical attention if you get an injury from a needle.
Prevent infections
Medical syringes are a source of transferring infections if left unattended. Used needles must be discarded on the spot. Cap the needle if the specimen is to be transferred to another location.
