Handling sharp injuries
What is a sharp injury?
A sharp injury is a cut, even a tiny pin prick, received from
something sharp. For instance, you may stand on a used needle
in the park, or cut yourself on a razor blade that has previously
cut someone else.
It is extremely rare for Hepatitis C to be passed on in this
way, as the virus does not survive very long outside the
body. However, if you have been cut by an item that could
possibly contain traces of active Hepatitis C virus, here's what to
do:
- Bleed (squeeze blood from the wound) and wash the injury
thoroughly under running water as soon as possible. If you
cannot get to a tap, use bottled water. Do not
scrub.
- Dress the wound with a waterproof plaster.
- Seek immediate medical advice from your local GP, health centre
or hospital. If at work contact your occupational health or first
aid personnel in line with your employer's health and safety
instructions.
- Don't touch the item without protective clothing if it is in a
public place. Instead report it to your local authority who
can dispose of it safely. If at work report it in line with
your employer's health and safety instructions (see below).
Naturally, you may feel anxious if you have had an accident like
this, especially as you wait for test results. Try not to
worry. Talk to your GP, hospital doctor or specialist who
will be able to reassure you throughout the testing process.
Sharp injuries at work
If you are in a job that means you might be exposed to the
Hepatitis C virus, your employer must, under health and safety
legislation, provide health and safety instructions on how to
handle and record an injury.
Healthcare workers
Guidance for those working in the healthcare industry can be
found at: