Bloodborne Pathogen Course

Chapter 2 Common Types of Bloodborne Pathogens

The most prevalent bloodborne pathogens, including Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Understanding the characteristics and transmission modes of each pathogen is crucial for implementing targeted preventive measures.

Common Bloodborne Pathogens

Hepatitis B (HBV)

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic diseases. The virus is transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person. HBV is preventable with vaccination.

Hepatitis C (HCV)

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that also affects the liver. It is primarily spread through direct contact with the blood of an infected person. Unlike hepatitis B, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, making prevention through proper precautions crucial.

Common signs and symptoms for both Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV):

• Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained tiredness.
• Loss of Appetite: Reduced interest in eating or significant weight loss.
• Nausea and vomiting: Feeling queasy or vomiting.
• Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the abdominal area, especially around the liver.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction.
• Dark Urine: Urine may appear dark or tea-colored.
• Pale-colored Stools: Light-colored or clay-colored stools.
• Fever: Elevated body temperature.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids, including blood. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to the disease Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

Common signs and symptoms associated with HIV/AIDS:

• Fever: An unexplained and prolonged fever is a common early symptom.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or extreme exhaustion.
• Headache: Frequent and severe headaches may occur.
• Muscle Aches and Joint Pain: Generalized body pain and discomfort.
• Rash: Skin rashes or lesions may appear.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained and significant weight loss.
• Persistent Diarrhea: Frequent and prolonged episodes of diarrhea.
• Skin Conditions: Rashes, sores, or lesions on the skin.
• Respiratory Issues: Chronic cough, shortness of breath, and respiratory infections.

For more information on bloodborne pathogens please visit the CDC Website

Chapter 3 Transmission Of Pathogens

Sources of Bloodborne Pathogens

The most prevalent bloodborne pathogens, including Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are primarily found in blood but can also exist in other bodily fluids like saliva and genital secretions.

They are typically transmitted through:

• Direct Contact: Contact with infected blood or bodily fluids through cuts, abrasions, or mucous membranes.
• Indirect Contact: Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with infected blood or fluids.
• Puncture Injuries: Accidental needle sticks or sharps injuries with contaminated objects.
• Sexual Contact: Through sexual activities involving the exchange of bodily fluids.
• From Mother to Child: Transmission from an infected mother to her child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Chapter 4 Occupational Risk

Individuals at the highest risk for Bloodborne Pathogen (BBP) exposure typically include those in specific occupations or situations where there is a likelihood of coming into contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM).

Some high-risk groups include:

• Healthcare Workers: – Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who handle blood or provide medical care.
• Emergency Responders: – Paramedics, firefighters, and other emergency responders who may come into contact with blood during emergency situations.
• Laboratory Personnel: – Researchers and laboratory technicians who handle blood samples and specimens for analysis.
• Law Enforcement Officers: – Police officers and law enforcement personnel who may encounter situations involving blood or bodily fluids.
• Mortuary Workers: – Funeral home employees and mortuary workers who handle deceased individuals.
• Needlestick Injury Prone Occupations: – Individuals in occupations with a higher risk of needlestick injuries, such as sanitation workers handling discarded needles.
• Dental Professionals: – Dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants who may be exposed to blood during dental procedures.
• Tattoo and Piercing Artists: – Professionals in the body art industry who handle blood during tattooing or piercing procedures.
• Correctional Facility Staff: – Prison and correctional facility personnel who may encounter situations involving bloodborne pathogens.
• Home Healthcare Workers: – Individuals providing healthcare services in a home setting, where direct contact with blood may occur.

These groups are considered high-risk due to the nature of their work or activities, which involve potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. It’s important for individuals in these occupations to follow strict safety protocols, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and undergo proper training to minimize the risk of BBP transmission.

Chapter 5 Bloodborne – Protection from Pathogens

Bloodborne pathogens (BBPs) are microorganisms found in blood or other bodily fluids that can cause diseases if they enter the body. Protecting oneself from exposure to these pathogens is vital.

Here are essential steps to safeguard against bloodborne pathogens:

Ensuring Safety:

Always prioritize safety by assessing the scene before any action. Identify visible blood contamination and take precautions accordingly to avoid exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens (BBPs).

Universal Precautions:

OSHA mandates Universal Precautions, a strategy to safeguard employees from potential exposure to all human blood and Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM). Treat all blood and OPIM as though they contain BBPs, including HIV, to minimize risks of infection.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when handling blood or OPIM:

• Gloves
• Goggles (eye protection)
• Gowns, lab coats, or aprons
• Caps
• Shoe covers
• Face shields/masks

Select PPE based on exposure type and anticipated quantity of blood or OPIM as per your company’s exposure control plan.

Safe Handling and Disposal:

• Dispose of contaminated materials properly in labeled, leak-proof, and puncture-resistant containers.
• Never recap, bend, or break needles after use; dispose of them in appropriate sharps containers
• Use caution when handling or transporting sharps to prevent accidental injury.

Hand Hygiene:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after removing gloves or other PPE.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are unavailable.

Safe Practices:

• Avoid eating, drinking, applying cosmetics, or handling contact lenses in areas where exposure to blood or OPIM is possible.
• Never store food or drink in refrigerators, freezers, shelves, cabinets, or on countertops or benchtops where blood or OPIM are present.
• Understand the risks associated with occupational exposure and know the proper steps to protect oneself and others.

Emergency Procedures:

• Have access to first aid supplies and know the appropriate actions to take in case of an exposure incident.
• Follow company procedures or protocols in the event of accidental exposure.

Remember, always adhere to workplace guidelines and safety protocols regarding bloodborne pathogens. If you experience a potential exposure incident, seek immediate medical attention and report it according to your organization’s policies.

Please note that this information is for educational purposes only and should not substitute professional medical advice or guidance.

Protecting yourself from bloodborne pathogens is crucial to prevent potential exposure and subsequent health risks.

Other Standard Precautions:

Maintain specific hygiene protocols to minimize risks:

• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in potentially contaminated areas.
• Thoroughly cleanse hands with soap and water after contact with body fluids or use antiseptic hand sanitizers/cleansers.
• Handle biohazard waste containers cautiously to avert exposure.

Handling Biohazard Waste:

Dispose of needles, sharps, and potentially infectious materials in designated containers with proper labels. Follow workplace guidelines for proper disposal, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Biohazard waste containers should be labeled with a fluorescent orange or orange-red background and the international biohazard symbol.

Employ engineering and work practice controls, such as sharps disposal containers and safer medical devices, as recommended by OSHA to reduce or eliminate employee exposure.

Adhering to these measures is essential for safeguarding against bloodborne pathogens and minimizing the risks associated with potential exposure in the workplace.

Chapter 6 Bloodborne – Handling Exposure Incident

In the event of exposure to blood or blood-containing materials, swift and safe action is vital to prevent potential illness.

Here are the steps to follow if exposure occurs:

• 1. Immediate Flushing: Quickly flood the exposed area with water to minimize the risk of infection.
• 2. Glove Removal Procedure: If wearing gloves, carefully remove them without touching the outside surface. Follow these steps:
  • a. Grip the exterior of one glove near the cuff and peel it downward, turning it inside out as it comes off (avoid pulling from the fingertips).
  • b. Cup the removed glove with your gloved hand.
  • c. Insert two fingers of your bare hand inside the cuff of the remaining glove, avoiding contact with any contaminated areas.
  • d. Peel off the second glove inside out, with the first glove enclosed within it.
• 3. Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and ample water as demonstrated in the diagram below or use a skin disinfectant if available.
• 4. Reporting Exposure: Notify your employer or supervisor immediately about the incident as per workplace policies and procedures.
• 5. Medical Attention: Seek medical evaluation and follow-up guidance as advised by your employer or healthcare professional.

Additionally, in cases involving needle sticks, sharps injuries, or exposure of blood or potentially infectious materials to eyes, nose, mouth, or broken skin, immediate action is critical. Ensure prompt washing with water and cleaning the affected area with soap or disinfectant. Promptly report such incidents to your employer and seek urgent medical attention.

Remember, disposing of gloves properly is crucial. If contaminated, discard them as directed by your employer, placing them in a designated biohazard waste bag. Proper handling and disposal minimize risks and contribute to workplace safety protocols.

Chapter 7 Bloodborne – Cleaning Exposed Areas

Thoroughly cleaning up blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) is paramount to minimize exposure risks.

Follow these steps to clean an affected area:

• 1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear the necessary PPE suitable for the task.
• 2. Absorbent Material: Use absorbent towels or materials to wipe and contain blood or blood-containing substances.
• 3. Sharps Removal: If there are broken sharps, use forceps, tongs, or a dustpan (avoid using bare hands) to collect and dispose of them safely in a sharps waste container.
• 4. Disinfection Process: Apply a disinfectant spray to the contaminated area and allow it to sit for a few minutes to effectively sanitize the surface.
• 5. Drying Phase: Use absorbent materials to dry the sprayed area thoroughly.
• 6. Waste Disposal: Properly dispose of all used cleaning materials and PPE in designated waste containers as per workplace protocols

OSHA Standards for Disinfectants:

In any workplace, maintaining a clean and safe environment is paramount to ensuring the well-being of employees. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets forth guidelines and standards to regulate occupational safety. One crucial aspect involves the use of appropriate disinfectants to mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens. This chapter explores OSHA standards and the disinfectants deemed appropriate for various settings.

OSHA Guidelines on Disinfectants:

OSHA, as a regulatory authority, emphasizes the importance of employing effective disinfectants to prevent the spread of infectious agents, especially in environments where exposure to bloodborne pathogens is a concern. The following are key aspects outlined by OSHA:

EPA-Registered Disinfectants:

OSHA aligns with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in recommending the use of disinfectants registered with the EPA. These should be specifically labeled as effective against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV).

Diluted Bleach Solutions:

Another endorsed method is the use of diluted bleach solutions. OSHA recommends maintaining a specific ratio—specifically, one-fourth cup of household bleach per gallon of water. This solution proves effective in disinfecting surfaces and materials.

FDA-Cleared High-Level Disinfectants:

High-level disinfectants, cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), also meet OSHA’s criteria. These disinfectants undergo rigorous evaluation to ensure their efficacy and safety.

Ensuring Effective Cleaning and Disinfection:

Compliance with OSHA standards for disinfectants is crucial for effective cleaning and disinfection. This not only safeguards the health and well-being of workers but also contributes to a safer working environment. Adhering to these guidelines significantly reduces the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Workplace Implementation:

Proper training on the selection, application, and disposal of disinfectants is essential. Additionally, establishing and consistently following workplace protocols ensures a thorough and systematic approach to cleaning and disinfection.

Chapter 8 Bloodborne – Reporting an Incident

Reporting an exposure incident is a critical step to ensure immediate action and proper handling after encountering blood or potentially infectious materials.

Here’s how you should report an exposure incident:

• 1. Prompt Notification: Report the exposure incident immediately to your supervisor or employer. Do not delay the reporting process.
• 2. Provide Details: Furnish comprehensive details about the exposure incident, including the type of exposure (e.g., needle stick injury, blood splashes to mucous membranes), the circumstances, and the nature of the materials involved.
• 3. Seek Medical Attention: Seek medical evaluation and treatment as per the recommendations provided by your employer or supervisor.
• 4. Complete Incident Documentation: Complete any required documentation as directed by your workplace’s exposure control plan. This could involve incident reports, medical records, or any other documentation specific to your workplace.
• 5. Follow-Up and Compliance: Comply with follow-up procedures, including medical evaluations and any subsequent testing or treatment as advised by healthcare professionals.
• 6. Maintain Confidentiality: Ensure the confidentiality of your health-related information. Sharing details of the exposure incident should be done only with those directly involved or responsible for managing the incident.

Remember, timely reporting of exposure incidents is crucial to receiving appropriate medical care and ensuring necessary preventive measures are taken to mitigate risks associated with blood borne pathogens. Always adhere to your workplace’s policies and procedures regarding incident reporting and follow-up actions.

Chapter 9 Conclusion

In conclusion, bloodborne pathogens pose significant risks to human health, particularly in healthcare and related settings. Understanding these microorganisms, their transmission modes, and implementing effective preventive measures is crucial.

Universal precautions play a pivotal role in minimizing the risk of transmission, emphasizing the importance of treating all blood and certain body fluids as potentially infectious.

The identification of common bloodborne pathogens, such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV, underscores the need for comprehensive training programs, especially for healthcare workers. Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the safe disposal of sharps contribute significantly to reducing occupational exposure.

Prompt and appropriate responses to accidental exposures, including immediate washing and reporting, are essential to mitigate the potential consequences of such incidents. Ongoing education and training programs play a vital role in creating awareness and ensuring that individuals stay updated on safety protocols.

In essence, a comprehensive approach, encompassing education, adherence to safety protocols, and a commitment to Universal Precautions, is crucial for preventing the spread of bloodborne pathogens and maintaining a safe working environment for healthcare professionals and others at risk of exposure.

Bloodborne Pathogen Course Exam