Needlestick injuries account for six out of every seven occupational-related disease transmissions and are responsible for the deaths of four UK nurses infected with HIV
The recent launch of the Safer Needles Now campaign highlighted the more than 100,000 needlestick injuries (NSI) occurring annually to health and lab workers in the UK.
NSIs also account for six out of every seven occupational-related disease transmissions and are responsible for the deaths of four nurses infected with HIV.
Between 2001 and 2002, it is estimated that these types of incident cost the NHS over £173 million.
With the prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis B and C increasing, BD is supporting the safer needles initiative with the introduction of the Eclipse blood collection needle.
This new design incorporates a patented safety shield that can be activated with just one hand as the needle is withdrawn.
This is a vital safety feature as many NSIs occur as users try to sheath the unguarded needle with their free hand.
The activation of the safety device occurs in full view of the user, can be visually checked, and is audibly confirmed with a click.
An irreversible, double-locking mechanism ensures a higher safety level after use and throughout the disposal process.
This is particularly important as downstream workers, such as cleaners and laundry staff, experience a significant proportion of needlestick injuries.
Laboratory and other technical support staff are also exposed to risk.
The Eclipse needle is fully compatible with all Vacutainer products, the most widespread blood collection system in use, and does not impose any change to blood collection technique. "Independent publications prove that Eclipse and its integrated safety shield will make an enormous impact on safe needle use," says Ruth Baillie, UK general manager at BD. "Allowing users to continue with their current technique will boost their comfort levels and help them establish confidence in the additional safety measures.
"Eclipse makes it easy to neutralise a used sharp and will become an indispensable and automatic part of every user's technique in a very short time.
"Re-sheathing and two-handed operation will be consigned to history".
The Eclipse needle is one of a range of safety needle products newly developed by BD.
The range also includes the Eclipse Safety needle and syringe for arterial blood collection and Safety-Lok blood collection set.
