Final answer:
Upon receiving a needle stick injury, the correct action is to follow the facility's policy and immediately report the exposure to your supervisor, who will guide the next steps, such as medical treatment and testing .The direct answer to the question is to d) follow the facility policy and report the exposure to your supervisor immediately.
Step-by-step explanation:
The direct answer to the question is to follow the facility policy and report the exposure to your supervisor immediately. After experiencing a needle stick injury, the proper protocol is critical to maintaining the personal health of the healthcare worker and upholding patient safety. Upon receiving a needle stick injury, the first step is to encourage the wound to bleed, ideally under running water, and then wash it using soap and water. Notifying the supervisor allows for a quick action plan to be implemented, which may include post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), testing, and necessary medical interventions. The situation must be handled with urgency due to the potential risk of transmission of blood-borne pathogens such as HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C. Following the facility's exposure control plan ensures that all steps are taken systematically, and proper records are maintained for future reference.