Safety in urine sampling: maintaining an infection-free environment.

The insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter is thought to be implicated in 80% of all urinary tract infections (UTI). In patients with an indwelling catheter, one of the most effective ways to determine whether or not there is evidence of a UTI is to aspirate a sample of urine for analysis, typically using a syringe and needle. Inevitably this puts the healthcare worker at risk of a percutaneous needle stick injury and accidental exposure to serious and potentially life-threatening viruses. Infection control is now taken increasingly seriously in UK hospitals, and the elimination of infection risk is regarded as a priority. In addition to training, and safer working practices the government recognizes the need for new technological innovation to help further reduce risks. In the urine sampling environment, there is a new needle-free port (EZ-Lok from Bard Ltd), designed specifically to reduce the occupational health risk of needle stick injuries.