Final answer:
After a sharps injury, immediately wash the area and potentially cleanse it with bleach, monitor for infection, and wear protective gear to prevent future injuries. Post-exposure treatment may be needed for healthcare workers. Always follow established healthcare protocols for managing sharps injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
After experiencing a sharps injury, a specific protocol must be followed to minimize infection risks and ensure proper wound care. Immediately after the injury, the affected area should be washed with soap and water without scrubbing, to avoid further irritation. In a healthcare setting, this can then be followed by cleansing with 1 N sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or a 1:10 dilution of bleach for 1 minute to further reduce infection risks. The wound should subsequently be bandaged and monitored for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, and pain. In case such symptoms develop, medical attention should be sought immediately as they might indicate an infection that could rapidly worsen.
Healthcare workers are at risk of contracting diseases like hepatitis B virus (HBV), and thus must use protective gear, including gloves and face protection, to prevent contact with body fluids. In the event of exposure to potentially infectious materials, post-exposure treatment may be necessary, including hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and vaccination. It is essential to follow detailed protocols available for handling sharps injuries and potential exposures. Healthcare facilities typically conduct routine testing of blood products to curtail the spread of infections through transfusions or similar procedures.