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Effect of the Introduction of an Engineered Sharps Injury Prevention Device on the Percutaneous Injury Rate in Healthcare Workers

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2015

Madelyn Azar-Cavanagh ,
Pam Burdt  and
Judith Green-McKenzie
Madelyn Azar-Cavanagh
Affiliation:
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia Occupational and Environmental Center, University of California, San Diego
Pam Burdt
Affiliation:
Postexposure Management Program, Occupational and Environmental Center, University of California, San Diego
Judith Green-McKenzie*
Affiliation:
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia
*
3400 Spruce Street, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Division of Occupational Medicine, Ground Silverstein, Philadelphia, PA 19104 ([email protected])
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Abstract

Objective.

To evaluate the effect of introducing an engineered device for preventing injuries from sharp instruments (engineered sharps injury prevention device [ESIPD]) on the percutaneous injury rate in healthcare workers (HCWs).

Methods.

We undertook a controlled, interventional, before-after study during a period of 3 years (from January 1998 through December 2000) at a major medical center. The study population was HCWs with potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. HCWs who sustain a needlestick injury are required by hospital policy to report the exposure. A confidential log of these injuries is maintained that includes information on the date and time of the incident, the type and brand of sharp device involved, and whether an ESIPD was used.

Intervention.

Introduction of an intravenous (IV) catheter stylet with a safety-engineered feature (a retractable protection shield), which was placed in clinics and hospital wards in lieu of other IV catheter devices that did not have safety features. No protective devices were present on suture needles during any of the periods. The incidence of percutaneous needlestick injury by IV catheter and suture needles was evaluated for 18 months before and 18 months after the intervention.

Results.

After the intervention, the incidence of percutaneous injuries resulting from IV catheters decreased significantly (P < .01), whereas the incidence of injuries resulting from suture needle injuries increased significantly (P < .008).

Conclusion.

ESIPDs lead to a reduction in percutaneous injuries in HCWs, helping to decrease HCWs' risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Type
Original Articles
Information
Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology , Volume 28 , Issue 2 , February 2007 , pp. 165 - 170
Copyright
Copyright © The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America 2007

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