A prospective observational study of needle-handling practices at a University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

This study investigates the prevalence of needlestick injuries (NSI) at Massey University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital by analyzing needle handling and disposal practices in the equine and companion animal clinics. The study found no direct NSI incidents, however, it revealed several unsafe practices, such as uncapping needles with the mouth, failing to use approved sharps containers for disposal, two-handed recapping, and location issues regarding the disposal containers. The study concludes by suggesting improved policies and training programs to ensure safer needle-handling practices.

Study Methodology

• The study was a prospective observational investigation that took place over two specific periods at the University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Observations were scheduled during clinical activities in the equine and companion animal clinics.
• The study primarily observed and recorded the handling and disposal of needles by underlying staff including veterinarians, nurses, visitors, and students.
• The researchers utilized χ(2) tests to compare the number of needle-related practices as a proportion of observations between the two clinics and amongst different personnel.

Findings

• No instances of needlestick injury were observed during the study period. However, the researchers identified several unsafe practices related to needle handling and disposal.
• Notably, the unsafe practice of uncapping needles using the mouth was predominantly carried out by veterinarians.
• Two-handed needle recapping after use was the most commonly observed method while the safer one-handed scooping technique was scarcely seen.
• The study also highlighted issues related to needle disposal. Staff at the equine clinic were more prone to using containers not designated for this purpose, or simply placing the used needles in their pockets.
• The location and availability of approved sharps containers was lacking, particularly in the equine clinic where no containers were available on adjacent bench tops.
• For a considerable amount of needle-handling activities, no approved sharps containers were present in the immediate work areas.

Conclusion

• The researchers conclude that policies and training programs need to be bolstered to reduce unsafe needle-handling practices.
• They suggested ensuring approved sharps containers availability in close proximity to where needles are used.
• The study highlights the need for practitioners in this field to prioritize safe practices regarding needle handling and disposal to minimize any injury risks.