NMC Urges Hospitals to Improve Injection Safety to Prevent HIV and Hepatitis
NEW DELHI: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has raised concerns about the risk of patients contracting HIV and viral hepatitis through unsafe injection practices. To tackle this issue, the NMC has instructed medical colleges across India to reinforce safety measures during injections, emphasizing that these infections can be avoided with proper precautions.
In an advisory issued nationwide, the NMC highlighted the dangers of unsafe injection practices, noting that they can lead to outbreaks of blood-borne infections, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. The commission has called for strict adherence to infection control norms in healthcare settings.
To ensure safety, the NMC has mandated that all medical institutions use only sterile, single-use needles and syringes. Reusing these items is strictly prohibited. Additionally, hospitals must enhance hand hygiene practices and manage the disposal of injection-related waste responsibly.
The NMC called patient safety a “non-negotiable mandate,” insisting on zero tolerance for unsafe practices like syringe reuse, unsafe sharing of vials, and inadequate disposal of sharp objects. This advisory is crucial, as India administers millions of injections daily across various healthcare facilities. Experts warn that even minor oversights in injection safety can pose serious risks to multiple patients.
To further minimize risks, the NMC recommends the adoption of safety-engineered auto-disable syringes that prevent reuse. Medical colleges are also urged to conduct regular training and assessments to ensure healthcare workers are competent in handling injections and invasive procedures.
The NMC has instructed hospitals to report any needle-stick injuries and clusters of infections for thorough investigation. Furthermore, healthcare worker safety is prioritized, with guidelines for post-exposure prophylaxis in line with the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) recommendations.
This advisory reflects the growing concern among health authorities regarding preventable healthcare-associated infections. Adhering to strict protocols remains the best defense against the transmission of blood-borne diseases and is essential for maintaining patient safety.
