What action should be taken following a needle stick injury?

Following a needle stick injury, the appropriate action is to report it and seek medical attention. This is crucial for several reasons. First, reporting the incident ensures that there is an official record in case of any future complications. It allows for proper follow-up procedures to be initiated, which can include testing for potential bloodborne pathogens such as HIV or Hepatitis B and C.

Seeking medical attention is vital to assess the injury’s severity and to receive appropriate care. Medical professionals may provide recommendations for prophylaxis or other treatments based on the circumstances of the injury. Additionally, prompt action can mitigate the risk of infection or complications resulting from the injury.

Ignoring the injury or continuing to tattoo not only jeopardizes the artist's health but may also pose risks to the clients, as bodily fluids could potentially contaminate the workspace. Not documenting the incident as part of client records fails to maintain an important safety protocol and could lead to liability issues in the future. Therefore, reporting and seeking medical evaluation is the best course of action in the event of a needle stick injury.