Risk for needle injuries:
(1) emergency surgery
(2) patient or environmental movement
(3) inexperience in one or more members of the surgical team
(4) loose drapes, towels or clothing
(5) poor vision in the surgical field (due to poor lighting, blood, other causes)
(6) tight or crowded surgical space
(7) use of straight needles
(8) use of handheld needles
(9) laying a needle down outside of a designated safety area
Use:
(1) blunted needles when suitable
(2) instrument-mounted needle (needle holder, other)
(3) safety sheath if available
(4) double gloving or other hand protection/barrier
(5) a central location for placing needles
