Risk of Hep-B from lancet holder/blood glucose monitor used on multiple people

[IEatOranges1960]

Hello,

I recently had my blood glucose levels checked at a doctor's office. He used a new lancet, which was inserted into a lancet holder (pen-like device).

The lancet holder and blood glucose monitor were being used on many patients. Neither device was disinfected before or after being used on me.

What is the risk of Hep-B in this situation? The CDC says that holders/monitors should be disinfected between uses because blood can transfer from the holder/monitor during the test. Thanks

[FingHb]

High.  As well with AIDS, HIV, Hepatitis A,BCand possible D.  Also herpes.  Anything that deals with blood and being used on multiple people could be an issue.  

Also if you went to the dentist.   They reuse their equipments as well

[GuitarRox]

Why don't you think the office would use proper protocol?  How are you so sure nothing was disinfected? I would call the office and verify their practices.  An anxious mind can conjure up things that didn't really happen, I've seen it before.  So, call the doctor's office and discuss their protocol.

[IEatOranges1960]

I was the only patient in the doctor's room at the time. I saw him take the glucose monitor and holder from a case, which he immediately used on me.  I then saw him put both items back in the case without cleaning/disinfecting either. So neither item was disinfected prior to /after use. There is nothing to call and ask because I saw the the  exact steps that he followed.

[IEatOranges1960]

Thank you for trying to ease my worries