What to do after a needlestick injury

Immediately

1. Wash the area with soap and water. Don't scrub or squeeze.
2. For splashes to the eyes, nose or mouth, rinse thoroughly with water or saline.
3. Tell your supervisor straight away.

Report and get assessed

Follow your workplace's exposure procedure. Prompt medical assessment matters, because some follow-up treatment works best when started quickly.

Prevent the next one

• Never recap used needles.
• Dispose of sharps at the point of use, into an approved container.
• Close and replace containers at the fill line.
• Use safety-engineered devices where provided.