Medical Center Occupational Health Basics-Appendix 2

Appendix 2

Pdf Summary

The document outlines an updated definition for Health Care Personnel (HCP) who may be included in a tuberculosis (TB) screening program, as derived from updated CDC guidelines on preventing the transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in health-care facilities. Historically referred to as health care workers, the definition has been expanded to include a wide array of roles within health care settings, acknowledging the diverse contributors to patient care and facility operations. <br /><br />The appendix lists various positions, from clinical roles such as nurses, physicians, and respiratory therapists to non-clinical roles like administrators, clerical staff, and maintenance personnel. It also includes support services like food service workers, housekeeping staff, and morgue attendants. Important personnel related to the technical and operational infrastructure, such as engineers, information technologists, and laboratory staff, are also included.<br /><br />Additionally, positions that might not be typically associated with direct health care, such as correctional officers, homeless shelter staff, and construction staff within health facilities, are also recognized as HCP, reflecting their potential exposure to tuberculosis in these environments. This comprehensive perspective ensures a holistic approach to health safety and TB prevention, encompassing all individuals who might interact within or contribute to the health care setting, thus requiring post-offer pre-placement TB screening. This change in terminology and the inclusive listing underscore the critical significance of a wide range of roles in maintaining health and safety in medical and allied health environments.

Keywords

Health Care Personnel

tuberculosis screening

CDC guidelines

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

health care settings

clinical roles

non-clinical roles

support services

technical infrastructure

TB prevention