Bloodborne pathogens cause infections in the bloodstream and contribute to hepatitis B, HIV, liver complications, as well as malaria and syphilis. Healthcare workers are particularly at risk as are those who dispose of hospital waste, work in housekeeping in healthcare centers, and emergency personnel. To prevent bloodborne pathogen infections or contaminations there are several rules that need to be followed.

– Wash the exposed area immediately. If you have come in contact with blood from a wound or other bodily fluid you need to use soap and running warm water. Wash with an antibacterial soap that is non-abrasive. If your mouth, nose or eyes are affected, flush with water for fifteen minutes or more. Immediate care will help prevent contamination.

– Report the exposure. You need to inform your supervisor and/or other workers that you have been exposed to possible pathogen contaminates.

– If available, fill out an exposure report form and file it with the proper supervisors. This is important if you find you have contracted a bloodborne pathogen that may cause a disease.

– Ask for blood testing to see if you have contracted any life-threatening pathogens and request hepatitis B vaccinations.

– Wear protective equipment. You need to make sure you have gloves available and wear them. Gloves should be made from latex, nitril, rubber or other waterproof material. Double glove if you feel unsure about your patient’s status or if you are working with needles.

– Treat all blood and body fluids as if they are contaminated. Store and dispose of them according to health care rules.

– Replace all personal protective equipment that is punctured, torn, or worn.

– Remove your protective clothing as soon as you leave your work area.

– Disinfect or throw away all used protective clothing.

– Wash your hands often and immediately after removing protective clothing.

– Wear goggles if you feel there is risk of splashing when working with contaminated body fluids and bloods. Face shields can also provide an additional protection for your nose and mouth.

– Use aprons to protect your clothing when working on patients that have contaminated blood.

– Remove exposed clothing as soon as possible. Clean, burn or otherwise store contaminated clothing away from clean items.

– Use Universal Precautions when handling laundry that is contaminated and put clothing in protected and labeled containers.

– Wash your hands and other exposed skin directly after a contamination incident. Make sure you wash your face, arms, and neck.

In addition to the long list of protections from bloodborne pathogens, you should never eat, drink or smoke in a contaminated area. Avoid applying cosmetics or lip balms and do not handle contact lenses while in tainted areas. The basics of containment need to be followed to remain safe from bloodborne pathogens. Use common sense when in contaminated areas and do not allow yourself to be polluted. You can avoid contamination by using personal protective clothing, wearing appropriate gloves, disposing and storing dirtied items. Watch your hand washing hygiene at all times and do avoid personal habits that can provide an opening for pathogens to enter your system.

For more information, please visit our Bloodborne Pathogens website.

For more information, please visit our Bloodborne Pathogens website http://www.hipaaexams.com/bloodborne-pathogens-training.html

Author Bio: For more information, please visit our Bloodborne Pathogens website.

Category: Advice
Keywords: bloodborne diseases ,Bloodborne Pathogens,Hepatitis B Virus ,Hepatitis C Virus ,Human Immunodeficien