Does a needle-stick injury need to be reported if an infection does not develop?

A needle-stick injury should still be reported even if there is no infection that develops. Reporting such injuries is crucial for several reasons. It allows for monitoring of potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens, facilitates appropriate follow-up care, and contributes to workplace safety management practices. Consistent reporting helps identify trends or patterns and may trigger preventative measures to safeguard healthcare workers from similar occurrences in the future.

In healthcare settings, it is standard protocol to report needle-stick injuries to ensure that all safety protocols are adhered to and that all staff remain aware of the ongoing risks associated with handling needles and sharps. Reporting provides a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of safety training and compliance with established safety procedures, regardless of the immediate outcome of the injury.