Needle sticks

[RN06-NP09]

Hello everyone, I am new to this site. I will start nursing school next week . So excited and can't wait. Nursing has always been a dream for me.

There is one thing that scares me and I have read a lot about it. Needle sticks and potential infections. Is that something common that happens in the hospital. how can you really prevent hurting yourself? I am always scared of thinking I could bring a disease home to my husband and kids :uhoh21: . How about Resp. patients. Do you wear masks everytime you walk in their room?

any idea?

[pricklypear]

Hi! Nice to meet you. Good luck with school!!!

Needle sticks are usually preventable. There are a lot of new syringes out now with all kinds of protective devices. I've been a nurse for 5 years and never been stuck by a used needle. Stab myself all the time with clean ones! When I'm not tripping on something, hitting my head on something or burning myself!

Seriously, just be careful. You will be taught safe techniques in school.

You will also be taught how to protect yourself from being exposed to infections at work. Using gloves, washing hands (all the time!) and using extra protective gear like gowns and masks around certain types of patients. As long as you follow the "rules" you won't take anything home with you.

Masks are only needed around certain types of respiratory patients. It depends on what organism has made them sick.