When a phlebotomist is stuck with a bloody needle during withdrawal from a patient, what should they do first?

The first action a phlebotomist should take after being stuck with a bloody needle is to wash the exposed area with soap and water. This immediate response is crucial for minimizing the risk of infection and exposure to potentially infectious materials. Thoroughly cleaning the puncture site helps to reduce the viral or bacterial load that may have been introduced into the bloodstream through the needle stick.

Washing the area effectively can remove any contaminants that could lead to infection, underscoring the importance of personal hygiene in a healthcare setting. After this immediate step, it is essential for the phlebotomist to follow additional protocols, which may include notifying a supervisor, completing an incident report, and seeking medical evaluation, but the immediate priority is to cleanse the area to mitigate health risks.