OSHA

What does OSHA stand for and what is its primary purpose?

Occupational Safety and Health Administration; its primary purpose is to ensure worker safety.

Why are health care workers at an increased risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens?

They routinely work with blood, body fluids, and handle sharp objects.

What is the purpose of the Blood Borne Pathogen standards (BBPs)?

To minimize or eliminate employee exposure to potentially infectious material in health care.

What must healthcare employers provide to ensure safety for their employees?

Adequate gloves and other personal protective equipment.

What should you know to do immediately if a needlestick occurs?

You should know the procedures outlined in your employer's exposure control plan.

What is the Needle Stick Prevention Act?

An act that establishes detailed requirements employers must follow regarding employee training and safety measures to prevent needlesticks.

What does CLIA 88 regulate?

It regulates what tests can be performed in which settings and the training and record-keeping required for those tests.

What are laboratories governed by?

Many agencies including OSHA, the FDA, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

What is the focus of investigations into accidental exposures?

To prevent future exposures rather than placing blame on employees.

What should you practice to limit the risk of contracting blood borne illnesses?

Performing skills safely and following all policies and procedures exactly.

What is the primary function of OSHA?

To ensure worker safety in the workplace.

What practices can healthcare workers adopt to reduce exposure to blood borne pathogens?

Use personal protective equipment and follow safety protocols.

What does BBP stand for?

Blood Borne Pathogen.

What is the role of employers under the Blood Borne Pathogen standards?

To minimize employee exposure to infectious materials.

What kind of equipment must healthcare employers provide to their workers?

Safe, adequate personal protective equipment (PPE).

What immediate action should be taken after a needlestick injury?

Follow the exposure control plan procedures immediately.

What does the Needle Stick Prevention Act aim to achieve?

To require training and safety measures to prevent needlestick injuries.

What organization oversees lab testing procedures in healthcare?

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

How do investigations into accidental exposures function?

They focus on preventing future incidents, not assigning blame.

What is a key strategy for limiting the risk of blood borne infections?

Following established policies and performing tasks safely.