What immediate action should be taken for a staff nurse who has experienced a needle stick injury?

The immediate action that should be taken for a staff nurse who has experienced a needle stick injury is to initiate first aid on the wound. This step is crucial in managing the injury effectively. By cleaning the wound promptly, the risk of infection can be reduced significantly. First aid involves washing the area with soap and water and, if appropriate, applying a sterile bandage to protect the site.

Taking this action first ensures that the nurse's health is prioritized, allowing for the quick removal of any contaminants that may have entered the body through the injury. After addressing the immediate care of the wound, it is important to follow up with other necessary protocols such as notifying the infection control department and documenting the incident; however, these are secondary to the initial first aid response.