§ Mr. ChaytorTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidelines he has issued to health authorities relating to the use of safety syringes; what assessment he has made of the extent of the current use of safety syringes by health trusts; and if he will make a statement. [84537]
§ Ms JowellAt present, the use of safety syringes is not widespread within the healthcare sector, due to the limited range of sizes and types available. Consequently, the Department has not issued any guidelines to health trusts on the use of these devices, nor has it carried out any assessments on their current usage.
The Department has issued guidance on the safe use and disposal of sharp instruments, including needles and syringes. Professional organisations and trusts have also issued local guidance.