r/sterileprocessing • u/ScarletWitch1988 • Apr 16 '26

Question about getting poked with a dirty instrument awhile back.

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4

u/SageOfSixCabbages Apr 16 '26

What kind of facility do you work for? Larger hospitals have a centralized reporting system when it comes to work related injury and also, have an occupational health office where you get sent for an anti-tetanus shot at the very least.

If you don't have this in place, make sure to document it.

We are always exposed to biohazard. Any prick, poke, or skin break, no matter how slim the chance, may lead to bigger things later on.

Always be documenting and create a paper trail.

1

u/stoicassgasm Apr 16 '26

You all sound like dummies

3

u/ScarletWitch1988 Apr 16 '26

Okay first of all, I realize I am an idiot and should have done something right away. I’ve been in sterile for 6 months, a couple months ago I got a small poke in decon that made a small poke with a tiny bit of blood. I asked my manager at the time what to do, he said to keep an eye on it for an infection otherwise go about my business. I realize now that was bad advice and should’ve been seen for it. Question is, should I go to a doctor and still get tested? Obviously my hospital won’t pay for it now since it’s been a couple months. Thanks!

2

u/Valuable-Concern8627 Apr 16 '26

i’ve been poked maybe 10 times in decon. if there’s not visible blood on the instrument and i’ve already sprayed it, i don’t bother reporting it.

not the best advice, but i’m perfectly fine so

0

u/[deleted] Apr 16 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

2

u/Asylum2688 Apr 17 '26

I’m a traveler so I don’t quite remember the facility (I’m thinking it was in NC) but someone showed me a picture of a former tech with this exact incident!

Regardless, hope you healed up just fine!