#safe injection

i went to my local harm reduction nonprofit today and they gave me SO much supplies.

but they gave me something even more incredible....

they said they are looking to pay us at the Outpost to distribute their supplies for them. we would make the harm reduction kits i planned with materials that they supply, and then distribute them in my community!

as of now, i have 5 full kits made!!

my collective will soon be collaborating with a huge local healthcare clinic in my region.

this feels like a dream.

the best idea is to have the pharmacy check if the 10ml vial is cheaper than 4x 1ml vials. if the 4x 1 ml vials are cheaper, ask for a new scrip.  if the 10 ml vial is cheaper, then the safest thing to do is waste the rest.  They can check with your insurance, but you can also check your area with Good RX (in my area, I would save a minimum of $1 by getting the 10 ml vial).  When i first started hormones, the standard was 10 ml vials, and you could use them as long as it took you to empty them.  It was /technically/ against safe practices, but pharmacies would look the other way since it was not for hosptial/clinic use.  

In the past 10-5 years, state by state, they have been cracking down on the “28 day rule” meaning once a vial is opened, it expires 28 days after.  (This is because even with perfect technique, which we don’t all have, you can introduce bacteria into the vial, and studies have shown they can multiply even in a bacteriostatic solution).  

Now, essentially no pharmacies will allow more than a 28 day supply in a single vial (even if that means wasting some) because they can get big fines if they write that it’s okay to use past that time.  

Health Canada has now given permission for Montreal to open its own Safe Injection Sites/Safe Consumption Sites.

As one of the most common use medical devices, syringes play a crucial role in the administration of medications and treatments in the healthcare industry. With constantly evolving technology and materials, polycarbonate syringes have emerged as a popular choice for their unique properties and advantages. In this blog post, we will delve into the versatility and durability of polycarbonate syringes, and their impact on patient care.

What are Polycarbonate Syringes?

Firstly, let’s understand what polycarbonate syringes are. They are made from a type of plastic called polycarbonate, which is known for its strength and durability. This material is also use in the production of items such as medical devices, eyeglasses, and even bulletproof glass. In the case of syringes, the use of polycarbonate has revolutionized the medical industry due to its numerous benefits.

Key advantages of polycarbonate syringes

1. Versatility of Polycarbonate Syringes

One of the standout feature of polycarbonate syringe is their exceptional versatility.

Ability to Withstand High Temperatures Unlike traditional plastic syringes, polycarbonate versions can endure high-temperature sterilization without losing their structural integrity. This makes them ideal for environments where rigorous sterilization protocols are necessary.

Compatibility with a Wide Range of Medications Polycarbonate syringes are compatible with various medications, including those that might react with other materials. This compatibility ensures that the medication’s efficacy is maintain, which is crucial for patient safety.

Flexibility for Different Injection Methods Whether it’s for intramuscular, intravenous, or subcutaneous injections, polycarbonate syringes offer the flexibility needed for various medical procedures, ensuring precise and effective delivery of medications.

Read More : The Benefits of Using Disposable IV Infusion Sets in Healthcare

2. Durability of Polycarbonate Syringes

Durability is another area where polycarbonate syringes shine.

Resistance to Breakage and Cracking The robust nature of polycarbonate makes these syringes resistant to breakage and cracking, reducing the risk of injury to both patients and healthcare workers.

Longevity Compared to Other Materials These syringes outlast those made from other plastics, ensuring longer shelf life and reduced frequency of replacements, which is both economically and logistically beneficial for medical facilities.

3. Hygienic Benefits

Maintaining hygiene in medical settings is paramount, and polycarbonate syringe contribute significantly to this goal.

Ease of Sterilization Their ability to withstand high temperatures means they can be thoroughly sterilized without degradation, ensuring that every use is safe and free from contaminants.

Non-Toxic and Non-Reactive Properties Polycarbonate is inherently non-toxic and non-reactive, making it safe for use with a wide range of medications without the risk of harmful chemical interactions.

Prevention of Contamination The smooth, non-porous surface of polycarbonate syringes minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination, which is critical in preventing infections and ensuring patient safety.

4. Cost-Effectiveness

In the medical industry, cost-effectiveness is a key consideration, and polycarbonate syringe offer several financial benefits.

Lower Production Costs The production process for polycarbonate syringe is relatively inexpensive compare to alternatives, leading to lower costs for healthcare providers.

Reduced Risk of Costly Errors Their durability and precision reduce the likelihood of administration errors, which can be costly both financially and in terms of patient health outcomes.

Savings for Healthcare Facilities The extended lifespan and reusability of polycarbonate syringes translate into significant savings for healthcare facilities, which can allocate resources more effectively.

5. Positive Impact on Patient Care

Ultimately, the benefits of polycarbonate syringe culminate in improved patient care.

Accuracy and Precision in Dosage The clarity and precise markings on polycarbonate syringe ensure accurate dosage, which is crucial for effective treatment.

Comfort for Patients These syringes are design to minimize discomfort, making the injection process smoother and less painful for patients.

Increased Safety The reliability and non-reactive nature of polycarbonate syringe enhance overall patient safety, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and ensuring a higher standard of care.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the widespread popularity of polycarbonate syringe in the medical industry can be attributed to their durability, transparency, and compatibility with a wide range of medications. Their ability to withstand repeated use, provide clear visibility of contents, and ensure safe administration make them a preferred choice for healthcare professionals. With ongoing advancements in technology and manufacturing processes, polycarbonate syringe are expected to continue playing a crucial role in improving patient care and safety in the medical field.

You can’t just pretend that the traumas and addictions that run rampant in our society do not exist simply because you’d rather not see them. I think we’d all benefit from actually opening our eyes and truly living in reality. The backyard is a place we all share regardless of status, gender, race, etc…. We should make it the safest and kindest place for everyone who hangs out there. We are horrified by the genocides of our past and yet we are fine to watch people die just because they’re different.

By Ashley Charzuk, CPSW                                                      October 2019

Currently New Mexico DOES NOT have a state mandated Safe Injection Site.

Safe Injection Sites are medically supervised facilities designed to provide a hygienic and stress-free environment in which individuals are able to consume illicit recreational drugs intravenously and reduce nuisance from public drug use. The legality of such facility is dependent by location and political jurisdiction.

Safe Injection Sites are part of a harm reduction approach towards drug problems. The facilities provide:

sterile injection equipment

information about drugs

basic health care

treatment referrals

access to medical staff to drug addicts