Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

What is the function of needleless systems in medical practice?

1. To increase the use of needles for injections

2. To improve medication efficacy

3. To eliminate the need for needles

4. To store needles safely

The correct answer is: To eliminate the need for needles

Needleless systems play a significant role in enhancing safety and reducing risks associated with needle use in medical practice. The primary function of these systems is to eliminate the need for traditional needles, which, in turn, helps to minimize the chances of needlestick injuries. Needlestick injuries can lead to serious health issues, including the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. By using needleless systems, healthcare providers can administer medications and perform procedures without the inherent risks linked to needles. These systems often include devices such as needleless connectors and systems that allow for the delivery of medications using pressurized mechanisms or other non-needle methods. This innovation is particularly beneficial in environments with high patient interaction, as it significantly reduces the exposure of healthcare workers to potential infections. While other options mention concepts such as improving medication efficacy or increasing needle use, these do not align with the primary intent of needleless systems. The focus is fundamentally on safety and risk reduction rather than increasing the use of needles or directly affecting medication efficacy. Storing needles safely is also not the goal of needleless technology, as these systems are designed to replace the need for needles altogether.