Guideline Update: ​Sharps Safety​ 2025​

Health care workers worldwide are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens after percutaneous injury. The perioperative setting is a high-risk setting for potential sharps injury and occupational exposure to blood, body fluids, and other potentially infectious material. A recent study showed that 42.8% of sharps injuries occurred in the perioperative setting. In this recorded webinar, perioperative team members will gain knowledge of the evidence-based recommendations included in the updated AORN guideline for sharps safety to help prevent sharps injuries.

1. Describe two types of devices with engineered sharps injury preventions features that could be used to minimize sharps injuries in the perioperative setting.

2. Identify five examples of work practice controls to minimize sharps injuries in the perioperative setting.

3. Describe three actions that should be taken after a suspected sharps injury.