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Multiple Choice
Healthcare workers who suffer a percutaneous injury should do which of the following?
A
Ignore the injury if there is no visible bleeding
B
Wait 24 hours before seeking medical attention
C
Immediately wash the area with soap and water and report the incident to a supervisor
D
Apply a tourniquet above the injury site
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the nature of a percutaneous injury: This type of injury occurs when the skin is punctured by a needle, sharp object, or other medical instruments, potentially exposing the individual to infectious agents such as bloodborne pathogens.
Recognize the importance of immediate action: Healthcare workers are at risk of exposure to diseases like HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C through such injuries, so prompt response is critical to minimize risk.
Step 1: Immediately wash the affected area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. This helps remove any contaminants from the wound site.
Step 2: Report the incident to a supervisor or designated personnel as per workplace protocols. This ensures proper documentation and initiation of post-exposure procedures.
Step 3: Follow up with medical evaluation and treatment, which may include blood tests, prophylactic medications, or vaccinations depending on the nature of the exposure and the source patient’s medical history.