How to protect yourself and others Blood Borne Pathogens How to protect yourself and others

What is a blood borne pathogen? a disease or virus that can be transmitted from one person to another by coming in contact with contaminated blood Examples: Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV

Hepatitis?? Hepatitis is a virus that infects the liver and can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer 3 types - A, B, C

Hepatitis A not caused by bloodborne pathogens. usually transmitted due to lack of hand washing which results in the contamination of food.  There is a vaccine to prevent the disease

Hepatitis B caused by contact with contaminated blood or sexual contact.  Most adults who get Hepatitis B are ill for a short time and then get better, however some become chronically infected.  Hepatitis B can live in dried blood on surfaces for up to one week.  All children in Texas schools are required to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine series.

Hepatitis C caused by contact with contaminated blood or sexual contact.  Some adults who get Hepatitis C are sick for only a short time, but most that are infected develop chronic Hepatitis C.  There is not a vaccine to protect against the virus

HIV HIV is the virus that leads to AIDS and weakens a person’s ability to fight infections and illnesses.  HIV is transmitted through coming in contact with contaminated blood and/or sexual contact.  Some people with HIV may not show symptoms for many years until the disease progresses to where they are unable to fight infections.  There is not a vaccine to protect against HIV

Transmission of Blood Borne Pathogens Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted by coming in contact with contaminated blood and through bodily fluids that contain visible blood.  Bodily fluids such as urine, feces, vomit, saliva, sweat and tears are NOT carriers of bloodborne pathogens unless they contain visible blood

Transmission of Blood Borne Pathogens you can be exposed to bloodborne pathogens if contaminated blood comes in contact with your mucous membranes, eyes or broken skin.  It can also occur if a contaminated object punctures your skin.  You can NOT contract a bloodborne pathogen through casual contact such as hugging or a handshake.

Transmission of Blood Borne Pathogens Exposure may occur when: Cleaning up blood and/or bodily fluids Rendering first aid Breaking up fights Diapering Assisting with toileting

Soooo…….. How do you protect yourself???

If you anticipate coming in contact with blood or bodily fluids make sure you are wearing gloves

WASH YOUR HANDS!!!

Steps to Proper Hand Washing 1. Turn on the water and wet your hands with warm water. 2. Apply soap and rub your hands together to form a lathery foam for 30 seconds. 3. Make sure to wash the front and back of your hands, as well as between your fingers and under your nails. 4. Rinse your hands well with warm water. 5. Dry your hands with a clean paper towel or hand dryer

What to do…. If blood gets on your skin immediately wash the area with soap and water.  If your mucous membranes or eyes become exposed to blood flush them with generous amounts of water and then seek medical attention.

Always remember to……. Put a barrier between you and the potential hazard Disinfect contaminated surfaces and objects Use a barrier mask if performing CPR Never pick up broken sharp objects with your hands