RCN welcomes EU-wide agreement on medical sharps injuries
Published: 10 June 2009
Commenting on the announcement by European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) and the European Hospital and Healthcare Employers Association (HOSPEEM) of an EU-wide agreement set to prevent 1 million medical sharps injuries per year, Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), said:
"With needlestick injuries affecting nearly half of all nurses in the UK, we are delighted that an agreement between EU employers and trade unions has now been reached to provide nurses with better protection. The Royal College of Nursing has campaigned tirelessly for the Government to end the stress, trauma and sometimes lethal consequences of these accidents. We now look forward to continuing the work with our European partners to see this agreement become law.
"It is simple - needle policies, appropriate training and investment in safer alternatives to traditional needles can stop these accidents happening in the first place. Nurses should also receive full support from their employers when they sustain an injury to prevent the feelings of isolation and anxiety that often accompany such trauma. By making these changes and safeguarding the health of all nursing and medical staff, the Council of European Union will be improving patient care in the UK and throughout Europe."
Ends
Notes for Editors
For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media
Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.