Needlestick injury in the OR

Published Nov 30, 2017

5 Posts

Had a needlestick intra op while assisting a surgeon while doing a herniorraphy. I placed the needleholders with the needle on the mayo table albeit I place them to the most distal portion from the intra OP site and I let the suture strands dangle. I do this so I can provide the instruments to the surgeon faster. Unfortunately as I pivot back and forth from observing the intra OP site to get clamps or even the suture itself, I at times come in contact with the needle and feel moderate pain. When I removed my gloves after the operation however, I did not notice any bleeding or pain from my fingers albeit I did not milk them to check further. Im thinking I may be paranoid as the needle that I accidentally made contact with was a round needle and I was wearing gloves at that time albeit the needle was already used in the patient. I work in a government hospital in the Philippines where pre screening of patients for OR for infectious disease is substandard. I know I must consult with an infectious disease expert and have plans of doing so as soon as possible, im just waiting for my day off.

I am currently 24 and though I am male, I cant shake off the feeling of anxiety that easily since I have a ton of dreams for myself and my family; and it is paramount that I succeed so that I can provide them a comfortable life. Perhaps posting this nerve racking circumstance here in allnurses was not the most wise of decisions but I guess I just need prayers... I hope God gives me another chance to retain my health and be one of the best at what I do, and be able to provide honor to my family. If you read this, I thank you so much for your time. :)