Exposure to bloodborne pathogens occurs during all phases of the perioperative process,although cuts or needlestick injuries are more likely during the intraoperative phase.What factors increase the risk of a sharps injury?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Risk of a sharps injury increases during more invasive,longer procedures that result in higher blood loss.Fatigue resulting from working extended hours coupled with the fast pace of the perioperative environment may also contribute to increased risk of PIs (AORN,2017).Other factors that may contribute to surgical PIs include frequent handling of sharp instruments and items,prolonged contact with open surgical sites,presence of relatively large quantities of blood,unsafe needle handling techniques (e.g.,using sharp rather than blunt needles),and failure to use a neutral zone for passing sharps between perioperative team members.

Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Occurs During All Phases of the Perioperative