Question

Which of the following are ways for medical professionals to prevent needlestick injuries? check all that apply.

a. wear gloves.
b. dispose of needles in medical waste containers.
c. wash hands.
d. avoid personal e. care items.

Answer 1

To prevent needlestick injuries, medical professionals should wear gloves, dispose of needles in medical waste containers, and practice thorough hand washing. These precautions are critical, especially for those with frequent exposure to needles like phlebotomists and dentists.

Step-by-step explanation:

Medical professionals can prevent needlestick injuries by practicing several safety measures. To prevent such injuries, which could lead to infections, they should:

• Wear gloves - This protective barrier helps prevent direct contact with needles and other sharp objects that could be contaminated.
• Dispose of needles in designated medical waste containers - Proper disposal ensures needles are not left in places where they could cause injuries.
• Engage in thorough hand washing - Especially after handling needles or other potentially infectious materials, hand washing is crucial for removing contaminants.

Other important practices include using safety-engineered needles and avoiding recapping needles, both of which further reduce the risk of needlestick injuries. Professionals like phlebotomists and dentists should be particularly vigilant due to their higher exposure to such risks.