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Handling of Needles and Sharp Objects
Sharp objects used in home for health care include needles and
syringes, lancets, glass ampoules, and razor blades. It is
important that you know how to safely handle these sharp objects
to prevent accidental needle sticks and cuts which can lead to
transmission of
infectious
diseases.
Tips on Safe Handling of Needles and Sharp Objects:
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Do
not uncover or unwrap the sharp object until it
is time to use it.
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Keep the sharp object pointed away from you and
other persons at all times.
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To prevent
needle injury, you should never
recap used needle
into its
original sheaths,
detached from disposable syringes by hand, or
purposefully bent, broken, or otherwise manipulated by hand.
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Ask for
assistance if you are performing procedure such as giving
injection or starting an intravenous lines that requires the
use of needles and sharp instruments on person who is uncooperative.
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Immediately discard used
needles and other sharp objects directly into a
puncture-resistant
container (sharps disposal container)
used
solely for such disposal.
The container
should be located as close as practical to the
user.
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Discard the sharps
disposal container when it is two thirds full. Never allow the contents to protrude out of the opening.
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If you
use an empty container to dispose sharp objects, it must be
of heavy-duty material. Be sure to reinforce the cover by taping it firmly
before discarding the container.
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Keep sharps
disposal container with sharp objects out of the reach of
children and pets.
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If you are
stick by needle, encourage bleeding, wash puncture wound
with soap and water and/or 70% alcohol.
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