Bloodborne Pathogens

If you’re at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens on the job, Hepatitis B Virus(HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and/or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the following are some precautions you can follow.

Safety Precautions

• Make sure to use Personal Protection Equipment PPE.
• Make sure it fits properly.
• Check for flaws or damage.
• Remove and dispose of PPE before leaving work area.

Gloves

• Cover cuts before wearing gloves.
• Use single-use, disposable gloves.
• Change gloves between patients.
• If gloves tear or become contaminated, remove and discard.
• When removing gloves, never touch the outside.
• Wash hands after removing gloves.

Mask

• Wear a mask along with eye protection to protect from splatters.

Gown

• Wear a gown to protect clothing or skin from exposure.

Cap and Shoe Covers

• Wear cap and shoe covers when large amounts of blood are anticipated.

Emergency Respiratory Devices and Pocket Masks

• Wear emergency respiratory device and pocket mask when resuscitating patients to isolate from body fluids.