by: Angela Brooks
Needlesticks and other sharps-related injuries which expose workers to bloodborne pathogens continue to be a significant hazard for hospital employees. OSHA estimates that 5.6 million workers in the healthcare industry and related occupations are at risk of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These disease are HIV, Hep B & C,
As a nurse who handles many sharp objects during a single shift – it becomes even more of a challenge in the mental health field where you see a high rise of HIV and Hep B&C, and giving IM medication to people who are angry, agitated and unpredictable.
Nurses are still get stuck way to much no matter how much awareness is out there. They get in a hurry and become careless with the needle once the medication has been given, or the safety attachments on the needles are not latched properly.
As I was observing a patient in a seclusion room several years ago, he came to the door leaned over and rolled something under the door for me. I stood and stared at a used needle that was left in the room from another patient before him. Not only could the needle have been used as a weapon, but the patient in that room could have stepped on the needle and been stuck as well.
Sharp objects, needles and other supplies used in the medical field have to be accounted for and properly exposed of for everyones safety.
The Support Safe in Common in its campaign to promote and strengthen the Federal Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act, raise awareness of needle stick safety, and utilize safer engineering controls to protect me and my fellow healthcare personnel from unnecessary needle stick injuries. If you agree that nurses and medical personal need to be aware of needle stick safety sign this campaign to encourage the Federal Safety and Prevention Act. Click I Agree!
Angela was voted 110th Leading Moms in Business celebrating the top mom owned businesses. She has been promoted in her job from a night shift staff nurse to the day shift as a Education and Training Educator for the new nursing employees, she has built her direct sales business part – time, while working a full time job, with her blog, newsletter, and smart phone. She has never picked up the phone to call cold leads or have home parties. Download the Mobile App
She has been invited to speak in Orlando Florida October 6-7, 2012 with ARealChange Int.
You’re invited to attend!
https://angelabrook.com/speaking