Suturing is a very intricate surgical procedure, in which needles can cause damage to the user during application. That’s why it’s so important to utilize a barrier kit rather than a regular suturing kit. The barrier is meant to protect the user from getting punctured by the needles, which means:
- You will be less likely to get injured during procedure.
- The risk of transmitting bacteria between a patient and a medical professional is reduced.
- The need to pause the surgery to go treat a prick from a suture needle would be eliminated.
The barrier from a barrier kit is usually made to be put on the user’s forearm, meaning:
- It conveniently allows for swift movement.
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The barrier is not as bulky or intrusive as gloves can be. - Needle traps are built right on the barrier for ease of access to suture needles.
The Most Common Cause of Surgical Sharps Injuries
Generally, three of the most common causes of surgical sharps injuries come from:
- suture needles
- scalpel blades
- syringes
The most common of these is suture needles, which is all the more reason to invest in a barrier kit. A barrier is meant to protect against any type of surgical needles, and this especially includes tapered ones. Tapered suturing needles are in a round, crescent shape. These are more commonly used than any other needle. That’s why a tapered suturing needle is the leading cause of surgical sharps injuries in its category.
Surgical sharps injuries in the U.S. have been steadily increasing. Surgeons can help to reduce that number by using suturing needles with a barrier. The use of a barrier could help save time and, potentially, lives. Not just surgeons, but non-medical professionals with first-aid knowledge could use this kit. It’s more recommended for medical professionals because of how hectic the practice can be. Look for these factors in a barrier when browsing through kits:
- light, not at all heavy
- puncture-resistant
- goes on forearm
If you are interested in learning more about these barrier kits, please visit the Sharp Fluidics website today.