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PPE

Relevant PPE is to be worn at all times. Gloves are to worn anytime bodily fluids may be involved, and are encouraged at all times when assessing and treating a patient. Gloves are to be changed between every patient.

HANDWASHING

Wash hands frequently. If handwashing facilities are unavailable, use hand sanitizer. This is to be completed between every patient.

COVID-19

If you have a positive confirmation of Covid, please advise Chris as soon as possible. Your shift will need to be covered.

COVID-19: guidance and support - GOV.UK

Needle Stick Injuries: Prevention and Policies

A Needlestick Injury (NSI) - NSI is where a needle or sharp object, contaminated with blood or other body fluid, penetrates the skin. For the purpose of this policy, this also includes human bites and scratches that break the skin and mucosal surfaces such as eyes or mouth.

Risk Reduction Measures:

Sharps bins:

• should be in the most appropriate and accessible place (one should be easily accessible in First Aid Post, Ambulance, and Kit Bags at all times)
• should be replaced when half full, rather than to the indicated line, as concern re needles springing back
• should be signed and dated when constructed; and again when closed
• when firmly sealed should be disposed of in the clinical waste bin (please advise Chris/Anna if any sharps bins are noted to be needing replacement)

Whilst using sharps:

• dispose of sharps immediately after use, one at a time
• Universal precautions should be taken, including wearing gloves
• Sharps will be disposed of by the person who has used them
   

Should an NSI occur while on shift:

Management of Needlestick/Body Fluid Exposure by the Injured Person It is essential that you follow this procedure with the minimum of delay – if HIV post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is required, this should, if possible be started within one hour of the Needlestick/body fluid exposure incident. 

Splash contamination injuries to eyes and mouth: Wash site immediately and thoroughly with water. Splash or injury to skin 

Wash site immediately and thoroughly with soap and water. Do not scrub the injured area and do not use antiseptics. Gently encourage puncture wounds to bleed by pinching skin around the site of injury. Do not suck the injury site under any circumstances. Bites If possible, remove any teeth, dirt, hair etc. that might remain in the wound. If a bite has severed a body part, e.g. finger or ear, wash it with tap water, wrap it in gauze and store it in a plastic bag surrounded by ice so that it can be transported to hospital. 

Immediately Following First Aid Make a note of the name, date of birth and address of the source patient involved. If he/she cannot be identified, record where the sharp was located, how the injury was sustained and the exact area of your body that was injured/splashed. 

Telephone Chris Lee immediately at 07780 081983

An incident report must be completed.