Medical examiners, also known as forensic pathologists, investigate deaths if they are deemed unusual or suspicious. However, it is not always known at the time of death if the deceased has a bloodborne infection or virus. This is why all bodies should be considered as potentially infectious and standard precautions should always be adopted, regardless …
The Rise of Monkeypox and How We Can Protect HealthCare Workers
What is Monkeypox? Monkeypox virus is part of the family of variola viruses, which also includes the smallpox virus. The first human case was recorded in 1970. The disease can cause rashes (often on or near the genitals) fever, chills, muscle aches and pains, headache and respiratory symptoms. The illness typically last 2-4 weeks. How …
Skin Deep – Sharps Cuts in Dermatology
As dermatologists are often required to do operative procedures, sharps injuries occur and can have significant consequences. Sharps Injuries in Dermatology In a recent survey of dermatology trainees in London (United Kingdom), 70% indicated that they have experienced a sharps injury, with 13.3% of which were from a scalpel blade (1). Similarly, 85.1% of dermatology …
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Sharps Injury Rates Rise During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Nurses feeling overworked and stressed with the surge of Covid-19 patients in hospitals and clinics have led to a 50% rise in sharps injuries in 2020. The survey asked 7,571 Royal College of Nursing members, of which 15% said they had suffered The most common causes include fatigue induced by the pandemic, low staffing levels, …
Veterinary Cuts: The Problem of Sharps Injuries in Pet Care
Sharps injuries are a worrying concern for veterinarians. A survey sent to members of the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Queensland in 2006 revealed that 75.3% had at least one sharps or needlestick injury in the previous 12 months, while 58.9% reported suffering from at least one contaminated sharps or needlestick injury during the previous 12 …
The Hierarchy of Controls and Sharps Safety
Addressing the Hierarchy of Controls Using Sharps Safety The Hierarchy of Controls is a very effective method for managing hazards in the workplace and should be followed to prevent sharps injuries to healthcare workers. According to Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), it is a well-recognised approach used to address sharps hazards in …