Needlestick and sharps injuries in the nursing student population.

Needlestick injuries (NSIs) and sharps injuries are a potential source of harm. Such injuries can cause considerable distress and have an economic effect on both the person who is injured and the healthcare organisation. Although data regarding trained nurses are more plentiful, there is a dearth of published information and research on the incidence and causes of NSIs and sharps injuries in the nursing student population, especially in the UK. This article provides an overview of the available evidence. There is a need for better education of nursing students and more effective supervision in relation to NSIs and sharps injuries.