Needlestick injuries are still a cause for concern in the healthcare sector. In times when Hepatitis B and C as well as HIV infections are on the rise again, cut or stick injuries are potential sources of danger for blood collection staff that have to be eliminated.

Various studies have shown that on the ward alone, around 500,000 needlestick injuries occur among approximately 750,000 members of staff per year. The risk of a needlestick injury is ever present, which makes it just a question of time before a healthcare employee suffers one.

To solve this problem, at this year’s MEDICA in Düsseldorf Greiner Bio-One is launching the new VACUETTE® TIPGUARD safety tube holder, with automatic withdrawal of the needle into the plastic housing, which provides reliable protection from stick injuries.

Comfort and safety are the features of this latest product innovation. After a routine blood collection procedure the safety mechanism is activated while the needle is still in the patient’s vein. When both blue release buttons at the top of the holder are pressed, the needle is withdrawn inside the holder by the spring mechanism. The used needle is then kept safely inside the holder, ready for disposal. The VACUETTE TIPGUARD safety tube holder was especially developed for use on patients at increased infection risk. To ensure optimal functioning, the holder should only be used with VACUETTE multiple-use drawing needles.