The Epidemiology of Sharps Injuries and Splash Exposures at a Military Medical Center

Abstract

Health care workers (HCWs) are subject to sharps injuries and splash exposures on a daily basis, and are therefore at risk for infection with a number of bloodborne pathogens. We conducted a review of sharps injuries and splash exposures at our institution. Although nursing personnel most often sustained sharps injuries, many HCWs from different patient care occupations are involved, and underreporting obscures the magnitude of the problem. Sharps injuries are most commonly caused by hollow-bore needles, although many devices in the hospital environment are capable of causing injury. Most sharps injuries occur after the device is used, but before disposal. Reducing the number of sharps injuries will require a multifaceted approach including reducing the need for using sharps, better HCW instruction in preventing injuries, and improved instrument design.