The following question was posed to the CBBS panel of experts for consideration:

In reviewing AABB Standard B2.723 and AABB Technical Manual, 12th edition (p 92-93) with regard to electrolysis or acupuncture, how does one know that properly sterilized needles were used? My concern relates to "dipping the needle in the blue stuff" as opposed to "sterilized." Is anyone making a differentiation as to donor suitability if these procedures are performed in a physician's office/medical facility as opposed to "at the beauty shop?"

The following ideas have been submitted in response to the posed question. These opinions are paraphrased and are being presented without attribution. They do not represent an official opinion or position of the CBBS.

The panelists stated that there are specific criteria that can be followed for deferring donors who have had acupuncture and/or electrolysis. These criteria are based on California State regulations for sterilization.

Acupuncture and electrolysis: Defer for 12 months unless:

• Single use, sterile, disposable needles or
• Needles treated to prevent disease transmission by one of the following methods:

The panelists commented that it was important to differentiate between procedures done by or under direct supervision of a physician, since if a physician is supervising, one can assume that sterile techniques are used. If a physician is not supervising, it may be important to ask for documentation of the method. For example, if reusable equipment is used, one should be cautious. Increasingly, however, a panelist commented that many people use disposable equipment or have their own needles that are only used on them.

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Ira A. Shulman, MD
CBBS e-Network Forum Editor & Moderator