WHAT ARE BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS?
Bloodborne pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms present in human blood or other potentially infectious materials. Examples of bloodborne pathogens include HIV, hepatitis A, B and C, and other blood infections. The greatest risks to workers are from HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
PROTECTING YOURSELF
- Treat all blood and potentially infectious materials as if they are contaminated with a bloodborne pathogen
- Make sure you are up to date on the hepatitis B vaccine
- Wear latex gloves and a disposable respirator mask when providing care
- Apply a bandage to any open wounds immediately
- Avoid touching the outside of gloves with bare skin by turning them inside out when removing
- Wash your hands and exposed areas with soap after exposure
- Place all sharp objects in the appropriate container after use
- Avoid eating or drinking food in an exposure area
IF YOU ARE EXPOSED
- Immediately wash the exposed skin with soap and water
- Do not use scrubs or soaps that can open sores or scabs
- Flush all body openings that came in contact with infectious materials with water
- Remove any contaminated clothing
- Report the incident to your supervisor immediately
- Allow your employer to schedule a blood test with your consent to determine if you’ve been infected with a bloodborne pathogen