Bloodborne Pathogens

What is a bloodborne pathogen? A microorganism or virus that is carried in the blood These pathogens can be transmitted if you come in contact with blood from an infected individual

What are the types of bloodborne pathogens I need to know about? There are a few types of bloodborne pathogens you need to be aware of – Hepatitis B (HBV) – Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Hepatitis B (HBV) A virus that is transmitted via direct contact with blood You may be asymptomatic for up to 6 months after the time of infection. Early symptoms may include: – appetite loss – fatigue – fever, low-grade – muscle and joint aches – nausea and vomiting – yellow skin and dark urine due to jaundice

Hepatitis B (HBV) Long term infections may result in cirrhosis of the liver There is NO cure for Hepatitis B

Hepatatis B (HBV) Vaccine There is a vaccine available for HBV The vaccine is made from the Hepatitis B virus, but cannot cause HBV infection The vaccine is given in 3-4 shots The vaccine provides long-term protection from HBV, possibly life-long

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Can be transmitted by direct contact with blood HIV attacks the immune system, causing infected individuals to become susceptible to infections that eventually cause death Early symptoms include – fever – aching muscles and joints – sore throat – swollen lymph nodes – weight loss

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) HIV cannot remain infectious for very long outside the body The primary concern is exposure to fresh blood There is NO cure for HIV There is NO vaccine for HIV

How are bloodborne pathogens transmitted? There are a variety of ways to transmit bloodborne pathogens, including – contact with infected blood – semen – vaginal secretions – cerebrospinal fluid – saliva

Bloodborne pathogens and your skin Normally, unbroken skin forms a mechanical and chemical barrier against invasive pathogens like bloodborne pathogens Bloodborne pathogens can enter your skin through – abrasions – acne – cuts – damaged or broken skin such as sunburn or blisters – open sores

Mucous membranes Bloodborne pathogens can also be transmitted across mucous membranes found in the eyes, mouth, and nose

How do I prevent infection? Always use Universal Precautions!!! Assume all blood is infectious Use the following precautions to prevent infection – Wear gloves – All sharp devices used to collect blood must be placed in a biohazard container – Any blood on surfaces must be cleaned with 10% bleach solution – Any item that has blood on it should be disposed of in a biohazard container

Follow these rules to prevent infection Treat all blood as potentially infectious Always wear gloves Replace gloves that are torn or punctured Properly disinfect the area you are working in Properly dispose of all blood-contaminated items Wash your hands immediately after removing gloves

Other Considerations Cover any cuts or sores on your hands with a bandage NEVER eat or drink in lab NEVER apply cosmetics or lip balm in lab NEVER handle contact lenses in lab

Decontaminate and Sterilize All surfaces that may have come in contact with blood MUST be decontaminated and sterilized by washing the area with 10% bleach solution

How do I clean up a blood spill? Cover the spill with paper towels Carefully pour 10% bleach solution over the towel-covered spill Let stand for 10 minutes Wearing gloves, collect the waste and dispose of in a labeled biohazard receptacle

What do I do if I am exposed? Wash the affected area with soap and water Flush the mouth, eyes, and nose for 15 minutes if blood splashes in any of these mucous membranes Report the exposure to your lab instructor immediately Follow the instructions given to you by Campus Safety concerning seeking medical attention

Summary ALWAYS use Universal Precautions Thoroughly clean your work area with 10% bleach solution Properly dispose of all wastes Report any suspected exposure Follow instructions about seeking medical attention