Sharps injuries involving a sheathed needle

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Occupational Health and Safety

Background:

• Dental local anaesthetic syringes are common in dental practice.
• Safe disposal of sharps is a critical aspect of infection control and healthcare worker safety.

Observation:

• Two dental nurses sustained sharps injuries from used dental syringes.
• The injuries occurred during needle resheathing when the needle was inadvertently bent.
• The needle had perforated the syringe sheath without the nurses' awareness.

Findings:

• Accidental sharps injuries can happen even when attempting safe disposal procedures.
• Bent needles pose an increased risk during the resheathing process.
• Lack of awareness of sheath perforation contributed to the incidents.

Implications:

• Highlights the critical need for heightened vigilance among dental professionals when handling used sharps.
• Reinforces the importance of avoiding direct contact with needles, whether sheathed or unsheathed, post-use.
• Underscores the necessity for routine training and adherence to safety protocols to prevent sharps injuries in dental settings.