Sharps injury procedure
SOP template
Check this template against your local regulations and your own policies before you use it.
| SOP no. | Version | Effective date | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Owner | Approver | Review date |
Purpose
To make sure anyone injured by a used sharp gets first aid and medical advice straight away, and that the injury is recorded and followed up.
Scope
Every needlestick, cut, splash to the eyes or mouth, or bite involving blood or saliva.
Responsibilities
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Injured person | Gives first aid at once and reports the injury. |
| Dentist or practice manager | Arranges medical assessment, speaks with the source patient and records the incident. |
Procedure
Give first aid
Let the wound bleed freely, wash it with soap and running water, and cover it. Rinse eyes or mouth with plenty of water.
Caution: Don’t scrub the wound or suck it.
Report it straight away
Tell the dentist or practice manager, even if the injury seems minor.
Identify the source patient
Record who the instrument was used on. With their consent, ask about their health and arrange blood tests if advised.
Get medical advice the same day
Go to a doctor or emergency department within hours, so they can decide whether preventive treatment is needed.
Record the incident
Record what happened, the first aid given, and the medical advice.
Follow up
Attend the follow-up tests the doctor recommends, and review how the injury happened.
Records
- The sharps injury report.
- Staff vaccination records.
Related documents
- Instrument reprocessing procedure
Revision history
| Version | Date | What changed | Approved by |
|---|---|---|---|
