Medical Center Occupational Health Basics-Bloodborne Pathogens Handouts

Bloodborne Pathogens Handouts

Pdf Summary

The document discusses various aspects of dealing with occupational medicine emergencies related to bloodborne pathogens, with a focus on the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. The standard includes provisions for exposure control plans, engineering controls, vaccinations, hazard communication and training, and recordkeeping to protect workers against health hazards related to bloodborne pathogens. Engineering controls, such as the use of safer medical devices and needle alternatives, are the primary means of minimizing employee exposure to sharps and needlestick injuries. After a bloodborne pathogen exposure, healthcare personnel (HCP) should wash the affected area immediately and report the exposure to their supervisor for medical evaluation and treatment. The document also provides statistics on sharps-related injuries among hospital HCP and highlights the underreporting of exposures. It discusses the risks and transmission of Hepatitis B and C viruses, as well as HIV. Recommendations for testing, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and monitoring are provided in case of exposure to these viruses. The document also emphasizes the importance of prevention through education, vaccination, engineering controls, and safe practices such as avoiding needle recapping and not eating or drinking in patient care areas. The document concludes by highlighting the key points of prevention, thorough assessment of exposure risks, and prompt initiation of PEP if indicated.

Keywords

bloodborne pathogens

OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard

exposure control plans

engineering controls

vaccinations

sharps

needlestick injuries

healthcare personnel

Hepatitis B

HIV