Safety & ComplianceQuestion 39 of 100
A phlebotomist sustains a needlestick from a used needle. What is the correct first action?
a.Squeeze the site hard to force out blood
b.Apply a caustic agent such as bleach to the wound
c.Finish the shift and report the injury at the end of the day
d.Wash the site immediately with soap and running water, then report the exposure
Explanation
Immediate washing with soap and running water is the recommended first step, followed by prompt reporting so post-exposure evaluation, source testing and prophylaxis can begin within the effective window. Squeezing the wound damages tissue and has no proven benefit. Applying bleach or other caustics injures tissue, and delaying the report can push treatment past the point where it works best.
Law Reference: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
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