What happens if you get an accidental needle stick?
Some people, such as health care workers are at increased risk of needlestick injury, which occurs when the skin is accidentally punctured by a used needle. Blood-borne diseases that could be transmitted by such an injury include human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV).
How serious are needle stick injuries?
What are the hazards of needlestick and sharps injuries? These injuries transmit infectious diseases, especially blood-borne viruses. Concern includes the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which leads to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
When does a dental provider have the highest risk for an accidental needle stick?
This report showed that dental students are at the highest risk of sustaining needle stick injuries at the fourth year of their 5-year BDS course with one-third of injuries (33.3%) being reported among the fourth year group followed by year 5 students (25%), but the difference between injuries reported among both …
What is the most common cause of needle stick injury?
A CDC analysis shows the most prevalent causes of inju- ries as a result of a needlestick incident were manipulating needle in patient (27%), improper disposal/disposal related (22%), cleanup (11%), handling/passing device during or after use (10%).
How soon should you be tested after a needlestick?
You should be tested for HCV antibody and liver enzyme levels (alanine amino- transferase or ALT) as soon as possible after the exposure (baseline) and at 4-6 months after the exposure. To check for infection earlier, you can be tested for the virus (HCV RNA) 4-6 weeks after the exposure.
What is the protocol for needle stick injury?
If you pierce or puncture your skin with a used needle, follow this first aid advice immediately: encourage the wound to bleed, ideally by holding it under running water. wash the wound using running water and plenty of soap. do not scrub the wound while you’re washing it.
What are the chances of getting hepatitis B from a needle stick?
Hepatitis B virus infection from occupational needle sticks has been documented in health care workers. The transmission risk is between 6 and 30%, depending on the absence or presence of HBV e antigen. If the health care worker is completely vaccinated, there is probably no risk.
How is a needle stick injury treated?
Treating needlestick injuries
- Wash the area gently with soap and running tap water as soon as possible.
- Apply an antiseptic and a clean dressing.
- Obtain prompt medical advice from your local doctor or hospital emergency department, preferably within 24 hours.
- Dispose of the needle safely.
Does a needlestick always bleed?
Generally, needlestick injuries cause only minor visible trauma or bleeding; however, even in the absence of bleeding the risk of viral infection remains.