She has since launched the National Campaign for Healthcare Worker Safety, in order to educate nurses and facilities on needlestick injuries, and to urge hospitals to implement safer devices. Although tremendous progress has been made as a result, more than 1,000 infections caused by 20 pathogens are estimated to be transmitted through sharps or needlestick injuries annually. If you are stuck by a needle, immediately report to employee health services at your facility for evaluation, counseling, and treatment if appropriate.
Timing is critical.
Formal reporting of the incident is also essential. Without accurate data, OSHA cannot justify the demand for safer devices. Lack of documentation has also made obtaining worker's compensation and other benefits more difficult for nurses. Placing sharps containers within reach and at eye level in every patient room also reduces the risk of injury. You can be active on several levels in order to help prevent needlestick injuries.