However, sometimes our clumsy side plays tricks on us, and those sharp little blades can do a lot of damage to our hands.
We met Solène, a victim of the scalpel! Exclusive investigation: how a podiatry student almost lost her little fingers!
The interview
My Podologie: Hello Solène, introduce yourself a little!
Solène: Hello My Podologie! I am 22 years old, I am in my final year of chiropodism-podiatry in Nantes and if all goes well I will graduate at the beginning of the summer.
My Podologie: Nice to meet you! How did this incident happen to you?
Solène: From February to the end of March we are on an internship for the last time before graduation. These are 6 intense weeks for us! One morning, when I finish my consultation I go back to clean my box and I wanted to remove my blade with pliers (a mistake not to make even if you feel comfortable with it) and having stumbled, my hand slipped under the scalpel blade...
My Podologie: Ouch... the consequences?
Solène: I underwent an operation with 16 stitches and 2 severed tendons (in my right hand, otherwise it's not funny...). This accident resulted in 4 weeks of sick leave. I can tell you that I will never again remove my blade like that and that I have nightmares about it! I lost my entire internship period that I will have to make up in June, compromising my degree.
My Podologie: Sorry to hear that... Did you learn how to remove a scalpel blade?
Solène: Yes, we were taught to use the check pliers but I don't find it so easy to use, that's why I used nail pliers.
My Podologie: Do you have anything to say to the podiatrists and future podiatrists who read us?
Solène: To all podiatrists and future podiatrists, be very careful when handling your instruments. I, who feel very comfortable using them, did not think that such an accident would happen to me and today I am paying the consequences... I have been thinking about the blade extractor since the day I cut myself so that it does not happen again!
Today marks 3 weeks since I stopped working. I got the stitches out and I have no pain but I am considering rehabilitation to get my range of motion back!
My Podologie: Thank you Solène, we wish you a very good recovery!
In conclusion...
Even if we feel comfortable with the gestures we perform in our daily lives, such as removing a blade from its handle using nail clippers, there is a risk. The risk is not only of cutting yourself, but also of being infected by the residue present on the blade that was used to treat a patient. The risks of blood infections are considerable.
In order to take care of your hands and especially to avoid having to spend a stay in hospital, there is a very simple way: get a blade extractor. Space-saving and very affordable, this small instrument will allow you to remove your scalpel blades safely.
My Podologie offers you a selection of blade extractors and waste collectors:
