What is the first step in the correct order of response to a needle stick injury?

The first step in responding to a needle stick injury is to wash the affected area with soap and water. This action is crucial because it helps to remove any contaminants that may have entered the wound immediately after the injury occurs. Proper hand hygiene reduces the risk of infection by minimizing the potential for pathogens to enter the bloodstream.

Washing the affected area reduces the viral load and helps to flush out any residual blood or bodily fluids that may carry infectious agents. This initial response is foundational in infection control protocols and plays a significant role in safeguarding the health of the individual who experienced the needle stick.

While alerting a supervisor, reporting to employee health, and obtaining consent from the patient are essential steps following the injury, they come after the immediate action of washing the wound. These steps are part of the overall protocol to address the injury and any subsequent medical evaluation and follow-up, but the priority is to perform first aid correctly to minimize any potential infection risk.