Universal precautions for blood-borne pathogens are infection control approaches that assume all blood and body fluids are infected, and consequently, appropriate precautions are taken. Blood, as well as somebody fluids, potentially contain pathogenic agents which can cause illness or death. Possible pathogens include Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV, which can cause AIDS.
If a person is exposed to blood through damaged skin, nasal mucous membranes, eyes, or mouth, or with needles or other types of injections, there is the potential for infection with pathogens. To minimize the risk of infection, the workplace needs to adopt universally acceptable preventative measures for blood-borne pathogens. This is the reason why it is imperative for employees to get bloodborne pathogens certification.
Universal precautions reduce the risk of exposure to blood-borne pathogens. To reduce the risk of exposure, employees at risk must receive appropriate information and training. You can also get Bloodborne Pathogens Online Group Training at BloodborneCertification.com. This will ensure that employees know how to prevent exposure using appropriate safety devices, and follow procedures that have been implemented to maintain worker safety.
Workers must also be trained in what to do if exposure to blood-borne pathogens or body fluids is at risk.
Universal Precautions Apply To:
• visible body fluids that contain blood
• blood
• cement
• cerebrospinal
• needles and other sharp instruments
• pleural, pericardial, synovial, peritoneal and amniotic fluid
Universal Precautions Require Use of Protective Barriers
• gloves
• protective glasses
• dress
• apron