If a dentist receives an inoculation injury while using a local anaesthetic syringe kit, what should be the first emergency action taken?

In the event of an inoculation injury, such as a needle stick from a local anesthetic syringe, the immediate priority is to thoroughly wash the wound. This action is crucial because it helps to remove any potentially infectious materials that may have been introduced into the body through the skin. Washing the wound with soap and water can significantly reduce the risk of infection and the likelihood of transmitting bloodborne pathogens.

While covering or drying the wound may be important steps in wound care later on, they do not address the immediate need to cleanse the area, which is essential for minimizing health risks. Squeezing the wound could also push more pathogens into the tissue rather than helping to cleanse the area. Thus, washing the wound is the recommended first step in responding to such an injury.