Cost-effectiveness of needle and catheter over needle with active protection devices in the hospital setting

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of needle and catheter over needle with active protection safety devices in the hospital context. A cross-sectional and retrospective study was undertaken at a public university hospital in Southern Brazil. The population was composed of consumption and material cost worksheets and 53 records of workers and students who suffered perforating accidents that occurred before and after the implementation of the safety devices, in the periods named A: June/2010 till June/2011 and B: June/2012 till June/2013. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. There was a 30% increase in accidents between period A and period B. The cost went from 44.769,93 to 139.558,08 American dollars. Educational strategies are recommended to enhance the cost-effectiveness of safety devices in healthcare organizations.