Why

Accumulating evidence indicates that devices with safety features reduce needle stick injuries:

• Needle less or protected-needle IV systems decreased needle stick injuries related to IV connectors by 62% to 88% [Gartner 1992; Yassi et al. 1995; Lawrence et al. 1997].
• Phlebotomy injuries were reduced by 76% with a self-blunting needle, 66% with a hinged needle shield, and 23% with a sliding-shield, winged-steel (butterfly-type) needle [CDC 1997a].
• Phlebotomy injuries were reduced by 82% with a needle shield, but a recapping device had minimal impact [Billiet et al. 1991].
• Safer IV catheters that encase the needle after use reduced needle stick injuries related to IV insertion by 83% in three hospitals [Jagger 1996].

Other studies also document substantial reductions in needle stick injuries with the proper use of needle less systems or newer safety needle devices used in a comprehensive program to prevent needle stick injuries [NCCC and DVA 1997; Zafar et al. 1997].

For more information about needle stick prevention and safety:

1. The NIOSH alert about preventing needle stick injuries in health care settings.

2. The Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act (HR 5178).