What should you do immediately after experiencing a needlestick injury?

Washing the area with soap and water immediately after a needlestick injury is the correct response because it helps to reduce the risk of infection from any potential pathogens that may have been transmitted through the needle. Clean water and soap effectively remove blood, bodily fluids, and any pathogens that may have entered the skin, thereby providing a crucial first step in post-exposure management. Promptly cleaning the wound can significantly lower the chances of transmission of bloodborne diseases, which is vital for health and safety.

In contrast, continuing to work without addressing the injury neglects the potential health risks that can arise from exposure to contaminated needles. Applying a bandage without first cleaning the wound can also lead to complications, as it does not address any contamination that may have occurred. Notifying a patient about the injury isn’t appropriate or necessary at that moment; the focus should be on personal safety and following the appropriate protocols for injury management.