Medical Center Occupational Health Basics-Bloodborne Pathogens

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video features Dr. Rachel Liebu, the Medical Director of Occupational Medicine Services with Atlantic Health System, discussing blood-borne pathogen exposures in medical center occupational health. Dr. Liebu emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for blood-borne pathogens, particularly hepatitis C and HIV. She highlights key risk factors for hepatitis C infection, such as prior blood transfusions and IV drug abuse, and emphasizes the need for testing and potential treatment for healthcare workers exposed to the virus. Dr. Liebu also discusses the risk factors and transmission routes for HIV and the importance of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for healthcare personnel exposed to the virus. She provides information on testing protocols for HIV and advises starting PEP as soon as possible after exposure. Dr. Liebu also addresses considerations for pregnant women and recommends consulting with an HIV specialist when determining the appropriate antiretroviral drugs for post-exposure prophylaxis. The video concludes with a Q&A session addressing specific concerns and updates to the recommendations for certain antiretroviral drugs in pregnancy.

Keywords

Dr. Rachel Liebu

blood-borne pathogen exposures

hepatitis C

HIV

risk factors

testing protocols

post-exposure prophylaxis

antiretroviral drugs