Table 1.

Basic measures for reducing needlestick injuries

Educate all employees and volunteers about safe sharps handling and needlestick avoidance.

Do not recap needles unless absolutely necessary. If recapping is necessary, use a one-hand scoop method, hold the cap with a mechanical device such as forceps or use a needle recapping device.

Ensure convenient access to sharps containers in all areas where needles might be used.

Promptly dispose of needles into approved sharps containers.

Never use temporary or unapproved containers for sharps.

Never try to remove anything from a sharps container.

Do not fill sharps containers beyond the designated fill limit.

Consider the use of protective devices such as retractable needles or hinged syringe caps.

Do not walk around with an uncapped needle.

Ensure all personnel report all needlestick injuries and record information regarding the circumstances.