Abstract
Background/Aims
Needle-stick injuries provide a substantial threat in regard to health of victims and may cause extra costs to health systems.
Materials and methods
We report on simple strategies to prevent a needle-stick injury by analysing search devices which can detect a lost needle.
Results
A magnetic device enables the surgeon as well as other staff members working in the operating room to locate a lost needle on the floor rapidly. For search in body cavities, X-ray examination is recommended.
Conclusion
With simple methods, a lost needle can be found easily to prevent any harm for others in the future.
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Acknowledgements
The authors wish to thank chief nurse Karin Brandt-Laurencic of the operating room staff (Technical University of Munich, Germany) for her sophisticated input in finding the most appropriate tool for needle search. The authors appreciate the skillful work of the photographer, Mr Andreas Mauermayer.
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Möhrenschlager, M., Ring, J., Henkel, V. et al. Lost needle: a simple search device for the operating room’s floor. Langenbecks Arch Surg 393, 1009–1011 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00423-007-0252-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00423-007-0252-8