Did you know that bloodborne pathogens are responsible for the majority of work-related illnesses?
Getting sick from work is one of the most unappealing aspects of the job. The good news is that by taking a few precautions, you can reduce your risk of getting sick from work.
Keep reading to learn about how you can protect yourself from bloodborne pathogens.
Educate Yourself About BBPs
Educating yourself about bloodborne pathogens in the blood is essential if you want to protect yourself and those around you. Being aware of the dangers related to the pathogens, how they can be transmitted, and the ways to mitigate risk are just some of the basic knowledge areas that you need.
To reduce your risk of exposure to BBPs, you should always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when in contact with potentially contaminated items or body fluids.
Be Equipped
Be equipped when dealing with situations involving potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Utilize personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, face shields, and gowns. Wear those even if you don’t think you’re at risk of exposure.
Practice safe disposal of blood and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) and never touch or handle anything that may have touched blood or OPIM. If you do, cover your hands with protective tools and wash them with soap and warm water as soon as possible.
Observe Handwashing Protocols
Observing handwashing protocols is one of the most important ways to protect yourself from bloodborne pathogens. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is important before and after you work with any patient or have contact with any bodily fluids.
It is also important to wash your hands after disposing of any contaminated items, after contact with skin, and before and after eating. Keeping your hands clean and germ-free is an effective way of preventing the spread of germs, bacteria, and viruses.
Practice Safe Disposal
Practicing safe disposal of all medical waste, especially items that have come into contact with bodily fluids such as blood, is a critical way to protect oneself and others from pathogens in blood. Used needles and syringes should always be disposed of in a designated sharps container, which will provide both a puncture-resistant storage vessel as well as a method of incineration.
All other contaminated items should be disposed of in a biohazard container and burned. Proper cleaning of any affected areas that have come into contact with any of these materials should also be undertaken in order to further ensure safety.
Getting Vaccinated and Regular Health Checks
Getting vaccinated and having regular health checks are important when trying to protect yourself from bloodborne pathogens. Vaccines are the best way to prevent infectious diseases, and they can provide protection from particular infections and illnesses.
Regular checks can also detect illnesses early, meaning you can get treatment before things become serious. Health checks can also reveal underlying health conditions that could be causing problems. It is important to note that these procedures are not a guarantee of complete protection.
Share your knowledge by getting certified at https://cprcertificationnow.com/products/bloodborne-pathogens-certification-online.
Learn More About Bloodborne Pathogens
Bloodborne pathogens are both dangerous and commonplace. Therefore, it’s important to educate yourself and protect yourself from possible exposure. It is essential to arm yourself with knowledge in order to keep yourself and those around you healthy.
Learn more about bloodborne pathogens today to keep yourself and others safe.
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