Cannon Street Health Centre in Oldham Manchester face legal action being brought against them after a 21 month old boy was found sucking on a hypodermic needle. Harvey Mills, 21 months, visited the surgery along with his mother for a routine vaccination for his younger brother. Whilst Harvey’s younger brother was receiving his vaccination, Harvey became inquisitive and wandered over to an open cupboard. Moments later Harvey was found with a hypodermic needle in his mouth.
Harvey had been able to reach the needle from an overflowing sharps bin designed for the correct disposal of needles. Harvey was able to gain access to the bin due to the cupboard being left unlocked and the bin being left to overflow.
Harvey was rushed to the Royal Oldham Hospital accident and emergency department in order to receive an emergency Hepatitis B vaccination. The family now face an agonising year long wait until they can find out if Harvey has contracted Hepatitis B.
Harvey’s parents are now considering legal action in respect to the surgeries medical negligence in this matter. Whilst the Chief executive of NHS Oldham has issued urgent instructions on the correct procedures in respect of the disposing of needles as well as the importance of keeping such waste locked away well out of reach and access.