S Wicker1, F Walcher2, S Wutzler2, C Stephan3, I Marzi2. 1. Occupational Health Service, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Sabine.Wicker@kgu.de. 2. Department of Trauma, Hand- and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. 3. Department of Medicine II, Infectiology, HIV Therapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
Abstract
PURPOSE: Needlestick injuries (NSIs) are a significant health hazard. Occupational transmission of bloodborne pathogens among healthcare workers (HCWs) is rare but has been repeatedly reported in the literature. METHODS: In October 2010, new regulations were introduced for medical aftercare of HCWs following NSIs at the University Hospital Frankfurt. In June 2013, a university hospital-wide early intervention program was introduced that gives HCWs immediate 24/7/365 access to an HIV postexposure prophylaxis kit after confirmed or probable occupational HIV exposure. RESULTS: Interdisciplinary collaboration between the attending surgeon and occupational health as well as infectious disease specialists facilitates optimal postexposure medical treatment of HCWs who suffer NSIs. Complete reporting of NSIs is a prerequisite for achieving optimal treatment of the affected HCWs. CONCLUSION: An NSI is an emergency and needs to be evaluated immediately and, if necessary, treated as soon as possible. A standardized algorithm for initial diagnostic and treatment has proven to be helpful.
PURPOSE:Needlestick injuries (NSIs) are a significant health hazard. Occupational transmission of bloodborne pathogens among healthcare workers (HCWs) is rare but has been repeatedly reported in the literature. METHODS: In October 2010, new regulations were introduced for medical aftercare of HCWs following NSIs at the University Hospital Frankfurt. In June 2013, a university hospital-wide early intervention program was introduced that gives HCWs immediate 24/7/365 access to an HIV postexposure prophylaxis kit after confirmed or probable occupational HIV exposure. RESULTS: Interdisciplinary collaboration between the attending surgeon and occupational health as well as infectious disease specialists facilitates optimal postexposure medical treatment of HCWs who suffer NSIs. Complete reporting of NSIs is a prerequisite for achieving optimal treatment of the affected HCWs. CONCLUSION: An NSI is an emergency and needs to be evaluated immediately and, if necessary, treated as soon as possible. A standardized algorithm for initial diagnostic and treatment has proven to be helpful.
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