Start here · Sterilization · Chairside infection control
After a needlestick or splash
Also called: exposure incident, sharps injury
Wash or flush right away, then report it immediately.
If you get stuck or cut, wash the area with soap and water. If blood or saliva splashes into your eyes, nose or mouth, flush with water. Squeezing the wound has not been shown to help, and do not put bleach or other harsh chemicals on it. Then report it right away to the infection-control coordinator or your supervisor, because some treatments work only if they start quickly. Your employer must offer a confidential medical evaluation.
What you do
- Know where your office's exposure plan and forms are kept.
Safety and care
- Hepatitis B vaccine must be offered to you within 10 working days of starting a job with exposure risk.
Related
Sources: CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17), OSHA. Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1030