Sharp objects precautions

What are sharps? Sharps are any item that may cut or penetrate the skin. Within the clinical setting these include:

• surgical instruments
• puncture points on intravenous fluid administration sets
• glass medication ampoules
• needles
• lancets.

One can clearly identify the potential risk for injury and cross-infection where sharp items are concerned and this relates not only to the person using the equipment but also to other team members who are involved in the disposal of used equipment such as porters.

Most injuries involving sharps could be avoided. It is the responsibility of each individual to help reduce this risk by adhering to the following points for the safe use and disposal of sharps.

The points of practice for the safe use and disposal of sharps are given below.

Procedure	Rationale
The individual using the sharp(s) is accountable for safe disposal, and should therefore be aware of the exact type and number of sharps being used and account for the disposal of each item following completion of the procedure	To ensure safety of self and others. Take the sharps bin with you and dispose of the sharp(s) at the point of use/site of task. To reduce the risk of injury to user or others whilst transporting the used equipment and to ensure that staff dispose of equipment immediately and do not leave used sharps around the clinical area
Never re-sheath a needle	Resheathing needles increases the risk of needlestick injury
Dispose of needles and syringes as a complete unit	This reduces the risk of needlestick injury and minimizes the risk of coming into contact with any remaining contaminated fluids within the syringe or sharps container
Always dispose of sharps into an approved container	To reduce the risk of injury and to ensure the safe transportation, disposal and incineration of used equipment
Never fill sharps containers more than two-thirds full, and then lock the seal	Overfilling prevents adequate closure and increases the risk of spillage and injury
Keep sharps boxes out of reach of children, confused clients or those likely to abuse the contents	To reduce the risk of injury and crossinfection. Most sharps boxes are brightly coloured and tempting to the young or confused client or visitor. Some clients/visitors may be tempted to reuse contents, e.g. needles
Do not use sharps containers to dispose of any other materials, e.g. packaging, swabs	Disposal of sharps containers is very expensive compared to the cost entailed in disposing of ordinary or other clinical waste

Remember: gloves do not protect against a sharps injury. Be vigilant at all times