Needle Contamination

[Amikhisweet]

Hi all,

I am currently expecting and my OCD has gone through the roof during this pregnancy and I keep getting triggers about contaminated needles,

I had another one today and I’m not sure if I am overthinking or if this is just normal
During my blood test whilst the nurse was about the put the needle in realised she forgot to put the band around my arm so she put the needle back in the box or on the box I didn’t pay attention and then used the needle on me to draw the blood. Is there concerns here for any contamination? I’m really stressing out right now.

thank you

Absolutely no risk of any contamination whatsoever, for a start I’m sure she will have rested it carefully so it wasn’t touching anything, but even if she didn’t the chances of it touching anything that could possibly cause any harm are infinitesimally small (I.e. non existent). Are you getting any help for your OCD?

I think you need medical help.

If it didn't touch you and then was placed back onto the sterile preparation area, I wouldn't call it a contaminated needle! It would be "contaminated" if it had come into contact with blood / another substance - this sounds like it simply had a longer time between being opened and being used as the nurse applied the tourniquet, but was in a clean place the whole time.

I am waiting for my referral to go through, I am one to except when I know something is wrong with my mental health. I think it was just reassurance I needed if this is something that can happen as it never has happened to me before. Thank you

Thank you

This is not helpful, or kind. Do better.