How to Prevent Bloodborne Pathogens

Bloodborne pathogens are micro-organisms in blood and other body fluids that can cause disease. The hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are among the pathogens of concern. The use of Universal Precautions and appropriate personal protective clothing can reduce the risk of contracting a bloodborne pathogen. Many human pathogens can be spread by contact with an infected person's blood or other body fluids. Proper use of engineering controls, disinfection, sanitization and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can reduce or eliminate the risk of contamination.

Things You'll Need

• Disposable gloves
• Face shield
• Eye protection
• Respiratory protection (mask)
• Antiseptic soap
• Hand sanitizer
• Surface sanitizer

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Instructions

• 1

  Identify activities and places where contact with blood, body fluids or other potentially infectious materials could occur. Stock those areas with gloves, face shields, respiratory masks and eye protection. Keep antiseptic soap at hand-washing stations or make liquid hand sanitizer available if hand washing is not possible. Have fixed or portable eye-wash stations available.

• 2

  Keep first aid kits equipped with gloves, masks, face shields and eye protection. Include antiseptic wipes and hand sanitizer in first aid kits that are used in areas without hand-washing facilities.

• 3

  Have containers for needles, scalpel blades, broken glassware and other sharp objects available for disposal of these hazards. If a "sharps container" is not available, either use a puncture-proof container to hold the sharp objects or avoid handling them.

• 4

  Always use Universal Precautions when handling a patient or first aid case. Treat all patients or first aid victims individually as a source of bloodborne pathogens. Take all precautions to prevent yourself and others from contamination. Remove and dispose of gloves in a biohazard waste container between individuals.

• 5

  Dispose of all protective equipment in a biohazard bag before leaving the treatment area. Remove gloves last. Take gloves off by pulling the first glove off by handling only the outside of the glove. Then, holding that in your gloved hand, remove the remaining glove by inserting your fingers inside the glove and turning it inside-out over the first glove. You can handle the inside of the glove as you dispose of the removed pair.

• 6

  Wash and sanitize your hands frequently. Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth until they are washed and sanitized. If body fluids get into your nose, blow your nose. If fluids get in your mouth, rinse your mouth with water and an antiseptic mouthwash. Wash your eye for at least 15 minutes if it is contaminated with blood or body fluids. In all cases of actual or suspected contamination, consult a physician for advice and evaluation.