What is the major source of danger in the healthcare setting? The answer is simple; needlestick injuries. Nurses, sanitation workers and lab technicians are just a few of the healthcare workers impacted by this danger everyday. In fact the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimate that approximately 385,000 needlestick injuries occur each year. And with each needlestick comes the risk of transmitting infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Sadly, needlesticks cause about 1000 of these three infections each year.
Because of this widespread problem, syringe manufacturers have developed about fifty different products that when used, significantly decrease the risk of needlestick injuries. In March 2000, the CDC estimated that 62% to 88% of needlestick injuries could be eliminated if only safer needleless systems were used.
So if this is the case, why are needlestick injuries still a problem? Unfortunately, many institutions across the country choose not to utilize the safer products due to their increased cost. These institutions rely on education programs designed to teach their staff how to avoid needlesticks. Obviously, with 385,000 needlesticks each year, the programs are less than successful. Experts estimate that only about 15% of hospitals use the safer products. The typical needle used to draw blood costs about 6 cents while the safer product will cost the institution about 25 cents. Seems like a small price to pay to protect healthcare workers but with the pressures of managed care, decreasing insurance reimbursements, and the concern with bottom line profits, many institutions don't think so.
But now with the urging of the CDC, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the American Nurses Association, and other agencies, this could all change. The federal government is now stepping in to to help persuade hospitals to utilize safer equipment. In fact, several states now having pending legislation requiring institutions to use the safer products when available. While use of the safer products is not mandated by the federal government yet, OSHA has been given the go ahead to fine facilities who don't use safer products.
As HIV continues its attack, and hepatitis C emerges as the new epidemic, eliminating transmission sources becomes more important. The use of safer syringe and needle systems has been proven to be an excellent way to do just that. Let's hope that hospitals across the country begin to realize that the safety of their staff should always be more important than their bottom line.
Source
United States Congress; "Public Law 106-430 / 106th. Congress"; Enacted 6 Nov 2000.
