Treating needle stick injuries a priority, says Robertson

The Bligh Government today detailed its commitment to protecting nurses who suffer needle stick injuries at work.

Health Minister Stephen Robertson said comprehensive procedures to protect clinical staff were in place at all Queensland Health hospitals.

“We have a duty to provide the safest possible working environment for health workers, particularly nurses, who are among the most vulnerable to needle stick injuries,” he said.

“Needle stick injuries can expose nurses to a range of diseases, so we’ve established uniform treatment guidelines for when these injuries occur in Queensland Health facilities.

“This means needle stick injuries have to be treated as emergencies.

“It means nurses need to have access to 24-hour advice and counselling in the event of a needle stick injury.

“The guidelines also require antiretroviral drugs be available in all emergency departments in case of HIV exposure.”

The latest available statistics show there were 4,655 reported needle stick injuries in 19 reporting Queensland Health hospitals between February 2002 and January 2007, with nurses suffering 2,213 such injuries.

Mr Robertson said needle stick injuries were a significant economic drain on the public health system.

”Research conducted by the Princess Alexandra Hospital has estimated that one needle stick injury costs a minimum of $223.50,” he said.

“This amount includes the costs for testing both the nurse and the patient, counselling for the nurse, lost work time and medical treatment.

“It’s another reason why the Bligh Government is committed to reducing dangerous needle exposure among all Queensland Health employees.”

Media: Martin Philip 3225 2680 or 0407 675 008