NIOSH How to Prevent Needlestick Injuries

Guide to needle stick and other sharps injuries prevention in any healthcare setting.

Needlestick and other sharps injuries are a serious hazard in any healthcare setting. Contact with contaminated needles, scalpels, broken glass, and other sharps may expose healthcare workers to blood that contains pathogens which pose a grave, potentially lethal risk.

ACTIVITIES WITH POTENTIAL FOR NEEDLESTICK INJURIES

Home healthcare workers can be at risk for needlestick or sharps injuries when they:

• Handle needles that must be taken apart or manipulated after use.
• Dispose of needles attached to tubing.
• Manipulate the needle in the client.
• Recap a needle.
• Use needles or…