Medical Needle stick risks of volunteering at a homeless shelter?

[Question]

Hi everyone, I found a great place to get some nonclinical volunteering hours at a homeless shelter. I do have some concerns though. The job consists of placing the homeless guest’s property (ex. Backpacks) in cubbies and handing them any items needed from the shelter such as blankets. Would you consider this to be a risky job? I’m wearing gloves and long sleeve clothing, but I am concerned of health hazards such as being exposed to a needle that might be poking out from their bag. Lastly, would I know if I were to be pricked?

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[GoSpursGo]

I wouldn't consider this more "risky" than any other volunteering position that puts you in contact with the homeless or others less fortunate than yourself. Consider, however, that working in healthcare will carry similar risks as you'll always have some risk for accidental needle sticks, and not only the homeless use IV drugs.

Bottom line, take the job, and be vigilant towards your safety, as you'll need to gain this skill to actually work in healthcare.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Your shelter should introduce you to the potential risks during your orientation. No employer loves dealing with worker's compensation issues.

 

[Dral]

Also, I'd recommend being up to date on vaccines. The main one is Hep B. If you haven't gotten it, you'll likely need it eventually throughout your educational process.

Of Hep B, Hep C, and HIV; it's the only one available. However, Hep B is also the most likely to be transmitted through a stick by far of the three.