Final answer:
The first action after being stuck with a used needle is to wash the area immediately with soap and water or a disinfectant, then seek medical attention for potential treatment and follow post-exposure protocols.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first action one should take if stuck with a used needle that has been in contact with blood is to wash the affected area with water and clean the wound with soap and water or a disinfectant. This immediate washing helps to reduce the risk of infection. After the initial cleansing, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Medical professionals may provide additional treatment, such as hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG), vaccination, or other post-exposure prophylaxes, depending on the risk assessment of the exposure.
Health-care workers must wear appropriate protective gear such as a protective coat, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves when handling potentially infectious materials. After any potential exposure to blood-borne pathogens, contaminated waste must be disposed of cautiously, and instruments should be cleaned thoroughly, following protocols to reduce the risk of infection transmission.
If in a healthcare setting or if there is concern about exposure to blood-borne pathogens, post-exposure protocols should be followed, including reporting the incident according to workplace policies, and testing could be performed to assess for potential transmission of infections like hepatitis B or HIV.