OHW 108 - Lessons Learned from the Selection and Implementation of Sharp Disposal Containers in a Pediatric Hospital

Background: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies two significant causes of sharps injuries in the workplace: improper design of sharps disposal containers and inappropriate selection of containers for specific procedures. This study aims to underscore the critical role of engaging relevant stakeholders and frontline healthcare workers (HCW) in the selection and implementation of a sharps disposal system.

Methods: A descriptive study took place at a standalone pediatric hospital in March 2022 when the hospital introduced new sharps disposal containers chosen by a contract evaluation team. Oversight of hospital-wide surveillance for sharp injuries and bloodborne pathogen exposures were conducted by infection Preventionists (IP).

Results: Following a near-miss needlestick incident, it was discovered that the opening of the new wall-mounted sharps container were insufficient for accommodating all sharps devices. The IP promptly assembled a multi-disciplinary taskforce and devised an interim mitigation plan while exploring alternative products from the vendor. The implementation of an alternative container with mail slot openings resolved the issue for most devices, except for a blood transfer device. This prompted collaboration between the IP and HCW to formulate specific instructions for the safe disposal of the transfer device. In intensive care units, floor-model sharps containers were introduced; however, the large opening posed a risk of potential access to used sharps devices. Thus, a metal insert was added to reduce the opening size, preventing unauthorized access while allowing for the free disposal of all sharps devices, excluding the blood transfer device. Subsequently, the institution opted to implement an alternative smaller blood transfer device to facilitate easy disposal.

Conclusions: Our experience emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive evaluation when choosing suitable sharps disposal containers. This process must involve active engagement with frontline user groups and leverage expertise from content specialists, including nursing and IP.