Each health care facility has a unique physical layout and employee population as well as a unique patient population that might require a higher frequency of invasive procedures and a variable level of care. The engineered devices that are effective for patients and employees in one hospital may not be for those in another. Within the seven hospitals operated by Detroit Medical Center, we use a variety of lancets with engineered protections. But the model that works on our trauma floor is not suitable for patients in our pediatric unit - the lancet used in adults gives a puncture that is too deep for a child or infant. We believe it is important for every hospital to determine what works best for their patients and their caregivers.
Hospitals continually reassess their sharps injury prevention programs.
We look at all of our engineering controls, including new devices. We ask ourselves whether the newest device on the market is good for our patients and good for health care workers. We continually examine the safety and applicability of products and procedures, as part of our commitment to protecting our patients and health care workers. At the Detroit Medical Center, we have had a sharps injury prevention program in place since 1989 - more than two years before the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard was published. Our program covers all seven of our facilities.