BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS AND SHARPS

What is the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard?

An OSHA standard regulating employee protection from exposure to bloodborne pathogens

Which diseases are specifically discussed as bloodborne infections?

HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C

What does HIV stand for?

Human immunodeficiency virus

What does HBV stand for?

Hepatitis B virus

What does HCV stand for?

Hepatitis C virus

How can bloodborne pathogens be transmitted in a medical setting?

Through blood specimens, open wounds, nosebleeds, vaginal bleeding, feces, vomit, and other body fluids

What does OSHA require regarding safety needles?

Employers must make safety needles available to medical employees

What is a sharps container?

A puncture-proof container for disposing of contaminated sharps

What is the purpose of a safety tube holder?

Helps prevent accidental needlestick injuries

What must employers provide regarding contaminated sharps injuries?

Safe-needle training and an injury log

What should you do with contaminated sharps?

Dispose of them in the designated sharps container

Why are safety needles important?

They reduce the risk of needlestick injuries

What is a needlestick injury?

An injury caused by a needle or other sharp object