Paper I — 2025 March (Supplementary (SAY)) (2019 Scheme) — Q10
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Paper I
2025 March (Supplementary (SAY)) (2019 Scheme) · 100 marks · 180 min
Question
List the two common viral infections transmitted via needlestick injuries. Explain how these injuries can be
prevented (1+3)
Q103 marksShort Answers
Answer
Two common viral infections transmitted via needlestick injuries: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) (HIV is a third important, though less efficiently transmitted, example — transmission risk per needlestick exposure is highest for HBV, intermediate for HCV, and lowest for HIV).
Prevention of needlestick injuries:
Never recap used needles by hand — the single most important preventive measure; if recapping is unavoidable, use a single-handed scoop technique.
Use safety-engineered devices — needles with retractable/self-sheathing safety mechanisms wherever available.
Immediate disposal of used sharps into puncture-resistant sharps containers, located close to the point of use — never leave used needles on trays or in general waste.
Never bend, break, or manually manipulate a used needle before disposal.
Never pass a used sharp hand-to-hand between staff — use a neutral zone/tray for handover if required.
Training of all healthcare staff in safe injection/phlebotomy technique and proper sharps disposal protocols.
Wear gloves during procedures involving needles (standard precautions) — though gloves reduce blood volume transferred on injury, they do not prevent the puncture itself.
Ensure availability of adequate sharps containers at every point of use, and maintain a calm, well-organized work environment to minimize sudden movements during procedures.
Prompt post-exposure management if injury occurs — immediate wound care (washing with soap and water, not squeezing/sucking the wound), risk assessment, and post-exposure prophylaxis (HBV immunoglobulin/vaccine, HIV PEP) as indicated per protocol.
