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Surgical Clerkship

Needlestick Precautions

What should I do if I get stuck by a dirty needle?

The Mount Sinai Hospital policy for needlestick injuries and blood and body fluid exposures applies to all faculty, staff, and students. Below is an outline of what one should do in the event of a needlestick. Full details of the policy are available in the Student Health Center.

Exposure

First, contact the Nursing Supervisor in your area. This supervisor will contact the Needlestick Coordinator (Monday through Friday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M., beeper 4118) or Nursing Administration (all other times, the Page Operator, x41800).

Student are referred to the Student Health Service Monday through Friday, 9 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., and to the Emergency Room all other times, and when they are off-site.

Evaluation

All blood and body fluid exposures are considered potentially infectious and require immediate assessment. Risk assessment and management will be initiated immediately. Prophylactic treatment for hepatitis and/or HIV may be required. Post-exposure testing and counseling will be provided by the AIDS Clinical Center Practice. This referral may be made through the Student Health Service.
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