Bloodborne Pathogens and Infections

Bloodborne Pathogens and Infections – Bloodborne pathogens are those bacteria, viruses, fungus and other minuscule organisms that possess the ability to cause significant disease for those of us who work to care for injured individuals.

Introduction

Introduction – Here we will discuss why bloodborne pathogens are important, their risks and the importance of minimizing exposure with an effective plan.

The Importance of Bloodborne Pathogens Training

The Importance of Bloodborne Pathogens Training – Within health care centers there are a range of professionals who may or may not directly provide care to patients, from nurses and physicians to administrative and sanitation staff.

Understanding the Exposure Control Plan (or ECP)

Understanding the Exposure Control Plan (or ECP) – The ECP is an algorithm for managing any exposure to bloodborne pathogens and also includes the following aspects:

Defining Bloodborne Pathogens

Defining Bloodborne Pathogens – These pathogens are microorganisms that can be transmitted via an infected person’s bloodstream.

Managing Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens

Managing Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens – In your place of employment, you may be exposed to pathogens at several junctions, whether during patient care, in the laboratory setting or within the restrooms.

Protecting Yourself from Pathogens

Protecting Yourself from Pathogens – Bloodborne pathogens generally require body fluids to thrive as they do not survive out in the environment for long periods of times.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

How Can You Protect Yourself? – Many of the easily available protective equipment may be made from allergens. As such always, ask the person you are treating about any allergies. If you or they are unsure, default to equipment that does not contain common allergens like latex. Many health care facilities are making these options easily available.

Handwashing

Handwashing – Once you go for lunch, eat a snack, or drink something, make sure to wash the hands again as there are likely germs that can contaminate the surface of your food. Make sure to wash the hands before touching your face such as if you are applying makeup.

Recognize Biohazards

Recognize Biohazards – Always discard biohazardous items in the appropriate containers.

Managing Exposure to Blood

Managing Exposure to Blood – Even when you use universal precautions and wear gloves, you may come into contact with blood or other body fluids.

Managing Exposure to Mucus Membranes

Managing Exposure to Mucus Membranes – Remove gloves (see next section), wash the hands and exposed areas, cleanse the membranes with significant amount of water, alert your supervisor and write a report. Maintain your workplace protocol for exposure.

Removing Gloves

Removing Gloves – Providers using gloves should be aware of the proper way to remove them after providing care.

Disposing Sharps

Disposing Sharps – Do not recap needles. This is a common cause of sharps injury. Additionally, this practice is contrary to protocols of OSHA and other regulating bodies.

Cleaning the Area After Exposure

Cleaning the Area After Exposure – Whenever body fluids and blood contaminate an area it must be cleaned to decrease the risk of contamination and exposure.

Follow Policies

Follow Policies – Always be aware of the policies of your work place for cleaning areas after exposure including the management of exposed materials, furniture and structures.

Immediately Clean the Area

Immediately Clean the Area – Wear protective equipment.

Report Exposure Incident Immediately

Report Exposure Incident Immediately – Once you have been exposed to a body fluid or blood you must manage the exposure at once.

OSHA Regulations

OSHA Regulations – Bloodborne pathogens pose a real risk to health and should be managed according to policies and quickly to prevent transmission of infection. By remembering this vital information you can reduce the risk of exposure and disease.

Bloodborne Pathogens Certification Exam

Bloodborne Pathogens Certification Exam – The Bloodborne Pathogens Certification Exam requires a passing score of 80%.