How to Protect Yourself from Bloodborne Pathogens
Any service-oriented job comes with many challenges and possible health risks, including exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Nurses working in the ER, firefighters, and even teachers are at risk of picking up an illness or an infection from blood and other body fluids.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) introduced the idea of Universal Precautions from 1985 to 1988 due to the AIDS outbreak. It required wearing nonporous items (ex. gloves and face shields) to prevent contact with a patient’s body fluids. The practice was adjusted in 1987 and again in 1996 when it became known as Standard Precautions.
Doctors, nurses, and hospital staff must adhere to Standard Precautions rules regardless of whether or not they know the patient has a bloodborne disease.
These precautions are necessary to keep health workers safe. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has also recommended the following preventive measures:
Study Bloodborne Pathogens
Knowledge is always the first line of defense. Health workers should go over the list of bloodborne pathogens and familiarize themselves with them. The proper education and training will help employees understand the gravity of these pathogens and why extreme caution is needed to handle them.
OSHA requires health organizations and related companies to ensure their staff receives the education they need to do their jobs optimally and safely. A certification in bloodborne pathogen courses and similar studies is also a good option. A class like this gives students clear instructions on keeping themselves and their patients safe.
Develop a Plan for Controlling Exposure
Every healthcare organization and related business should have an exposure control plan. It should have a detailed list of employees exposed to bloodborne pathogens. There should also be specific procedures workers will do if exposed to these pathogens.
Aside from the Standard Precautions policies, companies should also have protocols on how to maintain cleanliness. For example, washing hands using an agreed-on scrubbing method can be implemented. The company should also install hand washing stations throughout the workspace.
Use the Right Equipment
OSHA has also required healthcare facilities and medical companies to provide personnel with the right tools and equipment. Training for bloodborne pathogens includes information on the importance of using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Wearing PPE does a lot in preventing an individual from getting infected with a bloodborne pathogen. It’s the most effective precaution against any infection.
Every health worker must wear gloves any time they might encounter body fluids. While most gloves are made of impervious materials, personnel should wear a double layer if it’s thin or feels flimsy. It’s best practice to place a bandage on any sores or cuts on the hand before putting on gloves. It’s extra protection and can give more peace of mind. Hospital personnel should also wear gloves when giving first aid or regular care to patients. It should also be worn when changing beddings, removing the trash, or soiled clothing containing body fluids.
Masks and goggles are also essential. It will protect the mouth, nose, and eyes from being splashed on with body fluids or chemicals. Face shields can be worn for additional protection. Meanwhile, gowns and lab coats must be part of the health worker’s uniform. The materials can keep OPIM or blood from soaking the skin.
Take Care of the Trash
The disposal method of contaminated materials and PPE are as critical as using it correctly. Health workers wearing PPE should take all the equipment off before leaving the area they were working in. The gloves, masks, and scrubs should be disposed of properly. There should be containers labeled with their use (ex. Disposal, Decontaminate, Clean).
Make a Common Sense PACT
A measure of common sense is also necessary when it comes to protecting oneself against bloodborne pathogens. Health personnel must put their training to good use. The best approach when encountering an emergency is to stop and evaluate the situation. The next step is to decide on the best course of action. Employees should use all the materials and tools provided to stop possible dangers and give the required care.
Every medical personnel should remember and follow the acronym PACT:
● Protect yourself first against all bloodborne pathogens.
● Act fast when exposed to contaminated materials.
● Clean yourself and the affected work area immediately. It will lower the odds of infection.
● Tell the relevant groups when there’s a possible exposure in the workplace.
Get Trained
There’s a long list of bloodborne pathogens every health worker has to watch out for. Information is the best way to protect yourself against exposure. Regular training and following OSHA’s recommendations are also critical.
