Universal Precautions Used by Health-care Workers

Universal precautions protect health-care workers from communicable and potentially life-threatening diseases while they care for others. These precautions apply to blood, semen, vaginal secretions and any other body fluids containing visible blood as well as tissue, cerebrospinal, synovial, pleural, peritoneal, pericardial and amniotic fluids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Gloves

• Gloves should be used any time the health-care worker is touching blood, bodily fluids, mucous membranes or when handling items soiled with blood or bodily fluids. They should be changed after each patient contact, followed by immediate hand washing, says the CDC. It should be noted that in the event of a penetrating injury, such as a needle stick, gloves will not prevent against contraction of blood-borne pathogens, and immediate medical attention should be sought, says the CDC.

Gowns and Aprons

• Any procedures that might result in splashes of blood or bodily fluids should involve the use of gowns or aprons to protect the health-care worker. Gowns and aprons should be appropriate for the procedure and removed immediately after use. If the disposable equipment is saturated with blood that is dripping, can be squeezed or poured from it, it should be disposed of in a biohazard bag, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Masks and Protective Eyewear

• To prevent contamination of the eyes, mouth and nose during procedures that might produce droplets of blood and bodily fluids, masks and protective eyewear should be worn. Surgical masks, goggles and face shields are examples of this type of personal protective equipment, says the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. All should be properly disposed of after each use.