Needle Sharpness

[Rosie2]

Does anyone know of an article which describes any objective measures used to measure the sharpness of injection needles? Several of my nursing peers feel that the sharpness of a needle is compromised when pushed though a med vial stopper and then used to inject the patient. Therefore, they change the needle. I am not certain that this is necessary and would like some facts.

[melbnurse]

It has always been best practise procedure , anywhere I have worked , to draw up with 1 needle, and inject with a new one

[gwenith, BSN, RN]

Ditto here, best practice - change the needles.

Except for insulin but the insulin vials have a soft seal whereas some of the vials it nearly needs a jackhammer and an electric drill to get through the rubber stopper.

[melbnurse]

LOL@ gwenith! aint that the truth!

Actually , we use either Inolet , or Pens, for administering insulin, thus the needle is new each time , each patient has their own, dispensed by pharmacy .

We also have a " needle taker offer" , to prevent needle stick injury, when removing the used needles .

[panda_181]

We were taught to change our needles after drawing up medication, but that's only so that there's nothing on the outside of the needle itself when we inject a person...

Amanda :)

[Rosie2]

Thank you, Amanda. If I find out something objective about needle sharpness, I will post it.