Safe inoculation of blood and bone marrow for liquid culture detection of mycobacteria

Abstract

Background. Needlestick injuries confer an unnecessary risk of occupational bloodborne infections such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. After an accidental needlestick injury, procedures for inoculation of liquid culture media for rapid detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and other mycobacteria from blood and bone marrow specimens were reviewed. Aim. To identify a safer transfer device, which could replace the ordinary syringe in inoculation of liquid culture vials. Methods. We identified a transfer device to transfer blood or bone marrow specimens from bedside tubes into liquid culture vials. Conclusion. The changed procedure will reduce the risk of needlestick accidents and be of benefit to other microbiological laboratories using the same or similar inoculation techniques. © Society of Occupational Medicine 2004; all rights reserved.