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PASSING MAKES PERFECT Constant communication and neutral zones are critical components of proper sharps handling.
How We're Eliminating Sharps Injuries
In our battle against sharps
injuries, we depend on sharp
eyes, sharp observational skills, and sometimes even sharp tongues. It's all part of a larger effort to take a close look at what
we do, consider how and why we do it, and ask questions — lots of questions.
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For us, it starts with
watching and learning.
Barbara DiTullio, RN, BSN, MA
Ross Simon
Boston, Mass.
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Why do injuries happen?
When we surveyed our staff about the sharps hazards they saw, everyone expressed concern about the constant rushing. It's true. We're all so focused on time and turnover and minutes and efficiency that rushing is a big contributor to injuries. We talk about being fully present in our work, but it's hard when, as a nurse, you're expected to be a patient advocate, to make sure the
