1. Unit: Universal Precautions Hand Washing is the single most important step that can be taken to reduce the spread of infection. Refer your notebook for the proper procedure and when to wash the hands.

2. Universal Precautions All blood and body fluids will be considered infectious, regardless of the perceived status of the source individual!

3. Universal Precautions/Infection Control Standard precautions are the basic level of infection control that should be used when working in any capacity in the healthcare setting. They are intended to reduce the risk of transmission of microorganisms from both recognized and non- recognized sources of infection….which is high in a healthcare setting!

4. Standard Precautions Personal protective equipment (PPE) to carry out standard precautions includes: Gowns/aprons Gloves Masks Eye protection Face shields Standard Precaution procedures are in your notebook.

5. Universal Precautions for Infection Control/Blood Borne Pathogens Blood borne pathogens are infectious diseases that are carried in the bloodstream of an infected person. In the USA, the most common ones are: Hepatitis A – least damaging Hepatitis B- more severe Hepatitis C-very difficult to overcome HIV- Human Immunodeficiency Virus

6. Hepatitis B Major blood borne hazard on the job Inflammation of the liver Flu like symptoms... Severe Or no symptoms... A carrier indefinitely Blood, saliva and other body fluids spread virus to sexual partners, unborn infants, family members Can survive at room temperature for at least a week May severely damage liver, leading to cirrhosis and death (1-10%) Greater risk of liver cancer

7. Hepatitis B Treat with bed rest, adequate nutrition and fluid therapy, symptomatic relief Recovery 3 to 4 months with gradual activity increases

8. HIV Attacks body’s immune system Causes AIDS (Acquired Immun- deficiency syndrome) May have no symptoms for 5-10 years Flu like symptoms AIDS related illnesses – cancer, opportunistic infections and neurological problems

9. HIV Transmitted primarily through sexual contact, blood and some body fluids (not saliva), infants through pregnancy or breast feeding

10. How Do We Become Exposed?

11. Bloodborne pathogens enter our body through… Open cuts, nicks, skin abrasions Acne Mucous membranes of mouth, eyes and nose Indirect transmission by touching a surface contaminated with blood or other infectious material – then transferring to your mouth, eyes, nose or open areas (hangnails, cuts or open blisters)

12. Blood and Body Fluid Exposure Protocal 1.Immediately following exposure perform appropriate first aid measures: a. Eyes – flush with water or saline b. Skin (intact) – wash with soap and water c. Skin (non-intact) – wash with soap and apply antiseptic and band aid

13. What to do after exposure? Immediately report the incident to the Risk and Safety Management Department or person you are shadowing.

14. Universal Precautions/Air Borne Pathogens Air Borne pathogens are those that can be transmitted from person to person through the air by coughing, sneezing, laughing or singing. The most serious air borne disease is Tuberculosis(TB) See notebook – for facts

15. What is the most effective way to control the spread of any disease????