Needlestick-prevention devices. Disposable syringes and injection needles

Needlestick-prevention devices (NPDs) are an essential tool for protecting healthcare workers from injuries that could result in exposure to bloodborne pathogens. More than a dozen NPD varieties are available. They generally take the same form as conventional (nonsafety) sharps but incorporate some type of safety design--for example, a shield or a needle-retracting mechanism. In this Evaluation, we focus on protective devices that are used in place of conventional syringes and injection needles--namely, disposable protective syringes and needle guards. We tested 14 products from 8 suppliers. We give Preferred ratings to three products, all of which are needle-retracting syringes. When used correctly, these devices provide the best protection available. However, their primary safety advantage--preremoval activation--can be negated if the user chooses to activate the safety mechanism after removing the needle from the patient. For many facilities, one of the seven models we rate Acceptable might be a better choice. We caution that our ratings should not be the sole basis of a purchase decision. Staff members need to conduct a hands-on assessment of the available products to identify those that best meet their needs. We also stress that any NPD--even one we rate Not Recommended--is preferable to using no protective device at all.