Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Immediate management steps for a healthcare worker sustaining a needlestick injury:
- Immediately wash the skin and any wounds thoroughly with soap and water; do not suck the wound or squeeze it to express blood.
- Irrigate mucous membranes (e.g., eyes) with water or saline before and after removing contact lenses if applicable.
- Encourage puncture wounds to bleed freely but do not suck them.
- Small wounds and punctures may be cleansed with an antiseptic such as an alcohol-based hand hygiene solution.
- Report the incident according to local policy and to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as required.
- Seek urgent medical assessment immediately, ideally at an Accident and Emergency department or HIV/sexual health clinic, for consideration of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
- PEP should be started as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of exposure, and no later than 72 hours.
- Follow local guidelines and ensure rapid 24-hour access to urgent advice and PEP.
- Arrange follow-up including HIV testing at 8–12 weeks post-exposure.
These steps are critical to reduce the risk of HIV transmission and other bloodborne infections following occupational exposure to potentially infected bodily fluids.
NICE CKS,NICE CKS,NICE CG139