What is a dangerous practice involving syringes that can expose multiple residents to bloodborne pathogens?

The practice of indirect syringe reuse is particularly dangerous because it entails using a syringe for multiple purposes without adequately sterilizing or changing the needle. This can involve scenarios where a syringe might be used to draw up medication from a vial and then later used on another patient without proper cleaning. This practice can lead to the potential transmission of bloodborne pathogens, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, exposing multiple residents to these diseases.

Indirect syringe reuse may occur if healthcare providers do not follow strict infection control protocols, particularly concerning how medications are drawn, handled, and administered. The risk increases significantly in settings like nursing homes, where residents may have varying degrees of health and immune responses. Thus, adherence to safety guidelines around syringe use is essential to prevent outbreaks of infections among vulnerable populations.