ABSTRACT: Veterinary related needles stick injuries have the potential to cause significant, life changing injuries. Despite this they are still reported frequently to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD). There are also many anecdotal stories surrounding the culture and practice of using needles in veterinary medicine that suggest a high level of additional needle stick injuries may go unreported. The aim of this article is to highlight the dangers of veterinary related needle stick injuries and equip members of the veterinary team to feel empowered to seek appropriate treatment should they sustain such an injury.

Author

Helen Ballantyne PGDip BSc (Hons) RN RVN

After graduating with a degree in Pharmacology in 2002, Helen qualified as an RVN in 2005. She began a nine year stint as a locum nurse working nationally and internationally. During this time she spent five years on BVNA council in a variety of roles, culminating in her being awarded honorary membership in 2016. Helen obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Adult Nursing Studies in 2013. In her current role as a Transplant Coordinator she supports living kidney donors through the process of donation and organises transplant surgeries. Helen remains a Registered Veterinary Nurse and has developed a strong interest in the principles of One Health. Her first textbook, Veterinary Nursing Care Plans: Theory and Practice was published in 2018. She is currently working on an MSc in Healthcare Management.

Email: helen_ballantyne@yahoo.com

Keywords: needle; needlestick; health; safety; mineral oil; vaccine

To cite this article: Veterinary Nursing Journal • VOL 36 (07) • July 2021 pp226-228

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