What is the risk associated with using a shared syringe for multiple patients?

Using a shared syringe for multiple patients poses significant risks primarily due to the potential for cross-contamination and the introduction of a patient’s blood into medication containers. When a syringe is reused across different patients, there is a possibility that blood from one individual can enter the syringe and, subsequently, any medication it may be used to draw up or administer. This not only compromises the safety of medications but also increases the risk of transmitting bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV between individuals. This practice violates infection control guidelines and can lead to severe health consequences for patients, making it a critical point of concern within nursing home settings and healthcare broadly. Thus, the inherent risks associated with sharing syringes emphasize the importance of adhering to safe injection practices to protect both patients and healthcare providers.