Author: Ernesto Fierro
Exposure to blood pathogens has become a common familiarity in healthcare settings. For example, according to the CDC, an estimated 5.6 million healthcare workers are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Specifically, these pathogens can fall under distinct disease categories. Considering a large presence of potential hazards, its critical that healthcare workers learn about blood pathogens and other exposures. In addition to understanding pathogens in the work setting, healthcare organizations must implement safety standards through exposure controls plans.
Blood Pathogens: Types and Exposure
Blood pathogens infiltrate human blood as microscopic organisms which can cause disease and other health complications. Under extreme circumstances, the pathogens in body fluids can lead to sickness or death. In most cases, blood pathogens fall into one of the following disease categories.
- Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Classified as a virus that attacks defenses against illness , HIV disintegrates the body’s immune system by destroying while blood cells known as T-cells. If left untreated, the HIV virus gradually destroys an individuals’ ability to fight of illnesses which can lead to the development of AIDS.
- Hepatitis B Virus: The main complications associated with Hepatitis B is its inflammation of the liver. Some of the risk factors involving Hepatitis B include; heavy alcohol consumption, toxins, and certain medications. Additionally, OSHA policies mandate that healthcare workers receive immunization with a hepatitis b vaccine.
- Hepatitis C Virus: Hepatitis C also falls into the category of a liver disease. However unlike its preceding virus, hepatitis C cannot be prevented with any form of vaccination. Additionally, transmission methods involve sharing needles, drug injections, and genetic transmission from mother to her offspring.
Exposure Control Plans
An exposure control plan serves as a living document designed to protect the safety of healthcare workers. Specifically, an exposure plan inform healthcare employees about possible exposures to blood or body fluids in a work setting. This is federally mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration which implements guidelines pertaining towards blood pathogens and other hazards. The standards and regulations set forth by OSHA also include information on materials and areas at risk for contamination. Additionally, they addresses universal protection, protective equipment, as well as hazard training and communication. While companies vary in regards to their work setting , an exposure control must meet certain criteria
- Must be written for each facility
- Review and update once a year to reflect changes
- Be available to all workers
- Medical surviellance
- Signs and labels
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References
Hazard Recognition. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/bloodbornepathogens/recognition.html
Quick Reference Guide. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/bloodbornepathogens/bloodborne_quickref.html
Develop an Exposure Control Plan. (2010, August 18). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/correctionalhcw/plan.html
