Healthcare providers must be aware of the risks of exposure to bloodborne pathogens and how to prevent them. Regulatory authorities mandate that healthcare providers undergo certification in the utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves when there's a risk of coming into contact with infectious bodily fluids. Additionally, it's recommended that all healthcare workers receive yearly training in Universal Precautions (UP) to ensure safety and adherence to hygienic practices.
You don't want to be the one who's sued for exposing patients to bloodborne pathogens.
Bloodborne pathogens are a serious risk to healthcare providers and patients. If you're not certified in bloodborne pathogens, you could be sued for exposing patients to these diseases.
In order for you or your organization to be protected from lawsuits due to exposure incidents involving infectious agents such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or other potentially life-threatening illnesses such as sepsis or tetanus, it is essential that all members of the medical team are properly trained on how best protect themselves while caring for others who may carry these pathogens without knowing it themselves!
What are bloodborne pathogens?
Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms that can spread through human blood and other bodily fluids, causing various diseases. The most well-known bloodborne pathogens include Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, and Syphilis.
For those in the healthcare industry, understanding these pathogens, their modes of transmission, and preventative measures is critical. This vital knowledge can be attained through our Bloodborne Pathogens Certification. Our comprehensive course provides essential insights and practical skills to ensure safety and effectively manage potential exposure risks.
In contrast, non-bloodborne pathogens, such as Staphylococcus Aureus and Streptococcus bacteria, often cause infections outside our body rather than within. These pathogens are typically less likely to spread through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids or secretions. However, an increased risk of transmission exists when coming into contact with equipment contaminated by an infected individual's germs, such as needles used for drug use or tattooing.
Ensuring that you have the right knowledge and training can significantly reduce these risks, promote health, and save lives. Get your Bloodborne Pathogens Certification today.
The importance of gloves.
Gloves are the first line of defense against bloodborne pathogens, and they should be worn at all times when working with patients. Gloves prevent transmission of bloodborne pathogens by preventing skin exposure to bloodborne pathogens and splashes or droplets from contacting mucous membranes (e.g., eyes). While gloves do not provide 100% protection from transmission, they are still considered an essential part of any healthcare provider's personal protective equipment (PPE).
Do not take off your gloves before washing your hands! If you have to touch anything while wearing gloves, wipe them down with antiseptic gel first. Discard them after patient care by throwing them away in the trash bin located next to each sink area or wash basin so that no one else uses them again without washing their hands first - including yourself! Always wash your hands with soap for 15-20 seconds after touching blood/body fluids/secretions/excretions; this includes under nails too! Do not reuse any type of PPE unless specifically instructed by someone qualified such as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant who knows how long it takes each item being used outside its intended purpose before becoming unsafe again."
How to prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
To prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens, follow these steps:
- Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Use universal precautions.
- Use sharps disposal containers and bleach to disinfect the area where the needle was used. Be aware of biohazardous waste and how it should be handled in your facility, as well as how to dispose of it properly when necessary. Know what types of waste you can't flush down a toilet or sink drain (such as needles) so that you know where they need to go instead!
When you should use medical waste disposal services.
- When you have a large amount of waste and don't have time to dispose of it yourself
- When you don't have the proper equipment (such as a biohazard bag or sharps container) to properly contain your medical waste
- When you don't want to expose yourself or others in your healthcare facility to bloodborne pathogens by disposing of tissue, body fluids, or other potentially infectious materials yourself.
Get certified so you can practice safely!
To become a certified healthcare provider, you need to understand the risks of bloodborne pathogens and how you can prevent exposure. You also need to know how to dispose of waste properly and when it's necessary to use medical waste disposal services.
To stay up-to-date on rules and regulations regarding bloodborne pathogens certification.
We hope this article has helped you understand the importance of getting certified in bloodborne pathogens. If you work in a hospital or medical facility, it's especially important to know what these illnesses are and how they can affect your patients. Keep in mind that there are many ways that exposure can happen: if you're not careful when handling blood samples or cleaning up after surgery, then it won't take long before someone gets sick from something terrible like HIV infection!
