During a resident transfer, an HCA accidentally pricks their finger with a used lancet from a glucose monitoring device left unsecured on the bedside table. What is the HCA's immediate priority?

Question: During a resident transfer, an HCA accidentally pricks their finger with a used lancet from a glucose monitoring device left unsecured on the bedside table. What is the HCA's immediate priority?

Answer options:

• Apply a band-aid to the wound and continue with care. ✅ Wash the wound with soap and water, then report the incident.
• Clean the lancet with an alcohol swab.
• Document the incident in the resident's chart.

Correct answer: Wash the wound with soap and water, then report the incident.

Explanation: The immediate priority for a sharps injury is to thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water to remove any potential pathogens. This should be followed by reporting the incident to their supervisor or charge nurse according to facility policy for further post-exposure management.