Abstract
On June 2010 the Council’s Directive (2010/32/EU) on the prevention of sharps injuries in the healthcare environment, highlighted the importance to realize consistently measures in order to prevent the percutaneous exposure to biohazard. The Directive was transposed in Italy by D.L. n. 19 of 2010 and provides for an integrated approach to risk assessment, risk prevention and introduction of the needlestick prevention devices (NPDs). The purpose of this paper is to propose a feasible economic strategy finalized to introduce the NPDs in Healthcare Organizations. Methods. The data acquired from the records of injuries occurred in the period 2011-2013 at the AO San Carlo Borromeo of Milan was collected in a database on the basis of current legislation, scientific literature and characteristics of NDPs. The cost-benefit evaluation, carried out by U.O.C. Clinical Pharmacy, was reported in a report shared with the other protagonists of healthcare system, such as the Hospital Directorate, Health & Safety Manager and SITRA. Results. The cost’s increase in the healthcare systems after the introduction of NPDs, it is assessed approximately € 65.000 over the next three years. The proposed approach is based on “three-step” strategy for the gradual implementation of NPDs during the 2014-2016 period, according to the DM purchases budget of A.O. San Carlo Borromeo. The rational choice of NPDs and the opportunity to receive a special discount on insurance premium granted by the INAIL, ensures the economic feasibility for the introduction of the NPDs. Conclusions. The implementation of NPDs is part of a larger program for the accidental a work’s prevention, including informations and practical approaches in order to raise awareness about the need of continuous trainings and monitoring. The role of the Pharmacist is critical for the economic evaluation and the clinical risk management. In conclusion, the introduction of NPDS is economically feasible, especially considering the difference between the prevention’s cost and management’s cost of percutaneous exposures.
