AN UNEXPECTED NEEDLESTICK INJURY

Needle stick injuries occur at a significant rate. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, there are approximately 600,000 to 800,000 needlestick and other percutaneous injuries every year among healthcare workers. Not only do the needlestick injuries put workers at risk for blood borne pathogens, but they cause a significant psychological and emotional burden for those involved. This is a report of an anesthesia resident who sustained a needlestick injury through the sterile drapes by a surgical resident.