EU Directive On Needlestick Injuries May 19th 2013

Why a Special Directive ?

Problems Large numbers of health staff

across the board in Europe suffer neeedlestick Injuries

Transmission of blood borne diseases

Possible ruination of the health of person who sustains injury

Psychological effects If infection occurs –loss of career

& possibly of life Expense related to treatment

and absence of staff and possible financial awards

Solutions Strict training of staff in safety

procedures Make staff aware of the risks Regular assessment of staff

using needles Provision of appropriate

safety devices & training in their use

Commitment by health authority by putting in place policies which must be folllowed

The Purpose of the Directive

To achieve the safest possible working environment

To prevent injuries caused by medical sharps To protect workers at risk

To set up integrated policies re:- Risk assessment, training etc.

To put in place response and follow up procedures.

Facts & Figures

• In France the number of needlestick injuries was reduced by 75% by introducing safety devices with appropriate training

• In Europe 20% of needlesticks are suffered by doctors, 40% by nurses.

• Sweden reckoned needlesticks cost them E850,000 per annum

• Germany has 500,000 needlestick injuries a year

More Facts

On the Continent, generally speaking, most venepunctures

are done by doctors and nurses. Phlebotomists , where used ,

have a low incidence of needlestick but it does happen

The Directive covers ALL needle users including those giving injections/anesthetics etc.

What can Phlebotomists do ?

Staff can :- Ensure you are receiving up

to date training Insist on being supplied

with proper safety equipment with training

Ensure your Department Head, your fellow colleagues, HR Dept, & your employer are aware of and implement the Directive

Health Employer can do:- They must be aware of the

Directive & its provisions They must implement them They will liable if safety

equipment and training is not provided

It is compulsary for all member states to abide by the Directive

Be Aware:-

If your employer does provide proper safety devices and training and you do not avail of them , should you sustain a needlestick injury you will not be able to claim against them

Ensure your Head of Department supports your right to proper training and equipment

If your employer does not provide safety devices & training & you sustain an injury you will have a claim

The Last Word

As health professionals working under pressure with dangerous equipment, infected blood and often very sick patients you owe it to yourself to ensure that you are protected

from injury and infection. Phlebotomists are, overall, very committed to their profession and

are very skilful. Don’t let someone else’s lack of duty to you ruin your life.

PROTECT YOURSELF-ENSURE THE DIRECTIVE IS APPLIED IN YOUR AREA.