An Integrative Review of the Hands-Free Technique in the OR

Abstract

Sharps injury rates are proportionally higher in perioperative areas than in other practice settings. The hands-free technique (HFT) has been shown to decrease the hazards of sharps injuries when passing sharps during surgery. We reviewed and synthesized research studies regarding compliance with the HFT and factors facilitating its use using a key word search of online databases and a secondary search of references. We reviewed English language studies published since 2001 regarding HFT compliance rates or related factors using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Model and Guidelines. We found 14 articles reporting a wide range of HFT compliance rates (ie, 5% to 84%), which identified that a number of organizational factors and health care workers' perceptions of infection risks influenced the use of the HFT.

Keywords: hands-free technique (HFT); needlestick injury; neutral zone; safety compliance; sharps injury.