Sharp Injuries and Splash Exposure for Scrub IR Technologists—A Potpourri of Safety Issues

Background: Interventional radiology (IR) procedures pose unique high risks for the personnel working to be exposed to sharp injuries (including needlestick) and splash exposures due to the invasive nature and unique procedural circumstances of IR such as dark rooms, sterile drapes, catheters and tubing, etc. Such occupational incidents are serious hazards carrying the risks of bloodborne infections such as hepatitis B & C and human immunodeficiency virus and chemical injuries with the consequences and costs at personal and institutional levels. However, although such incidents are still common, they are often preventable. Several recommendations have been published for universal precautions focusing on prevention and management strategies to include institutionalizing a culture of safety and implementing educational and training programs regarding biosafety and exposure control in addition to improving the personal behavior and verbal communications inside the IR suite related to handling the sharps, syringes and tubing and using of personal protective gear.

Educational Points: IR suite has a unique environment circumstance that put the personnel at considerable risk for sharp injuries and splash exposure. It is essential that IR personnel adhere strictly to the biosafety institutional exposure control plan and protocols. Safe sharps handling practice and appropriate personal protective gear are essential in reducing such incidents and their consequences. Periodic education and training IR personnel can help reducing such incidents.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
02. April 2024