Bloodborne Pathogens A few important tips Based on the video “Bloodborne Pathogens in Schools: A Refresher Course” from Coastal Training Technologies Corp.

What are bloodborne pathogens? Bloodborne pathogens are infectious diseases that are caused by viruses and are transmitted through blood and other body fluids.

Bloodborne pathogens include: Hepatitis B or HBV Hepatitis C or HCV Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV which can lead to AIDS) The only way to detect these diseases is through blood tests.

Each one of these diseases has serious consequences. For that reason, we must consider everyone, including ourselves, a potential heath risk and take proper precautions.

Transmission These diseases are carried through body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions – any body fluid that can be contaminated with blood. Transmission can occur through open cuts, nicks, skin abrasions and mucus membranes. These viruses can survive at least 7 days outside the human body.

Minimize Your Risk Consider everyone a potential carrier – even yourself. Keep your hands out of messes created by body fluids – report to the office anything that needs to be cleaned up. We train on and practice procedures that are OSHA compliant. Practice frequent, careful hand washing.

Remember not to pick up things like broken glass with your bare hands – call a custodian. If exposed to blood or other bodily fluids, report it immediately to the school nurse. Feel free to consult the school nurse if you have questions about how to keep your self safe at school.