Pathogenic micro-organisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. All other body fluids also contain infectious materials.
Any unfixed tissue or organs in the body contain these micro-organisms.
Protect Yourself Against Infection:
Often simple measures such as washing your hands and wearing protective gloves will protect both you and the patient from cross-contamination. However, there is a risk that blood borne viruses, such as Hepatitis B or C and HIV may be spread by blood to blood contact. These viruses can be transmitted only if an infected person’s blood makes contact with a break in the skin. In order to prevent cross-infection, you should follow these precautions:
• Use your first aid kit – gloves, mask, protective glasses
• Cover your sores or wounds with a waterproof bandage
• If your eyes, nose or mouth or any wound on your skin is splashed by the injured person’s blood, wash thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible and consult a doctor.
• Use a mask, or face shield for mouth to mouth respirations.
• Dispose of blood and waste safely after treatment.
Facts:
Common household bleach will effectively kill any blood borne disease/virus.
Mix a 10% bleach solution (1 cup bleach/1 gallon water) and spray area with solution, let set for 2-3 minutes and wipe or rinse clean.
Any bloody clothing or bandages should be disposed of in a red biohazard bag and given to ambulance or hospital personnel for proper disposal.
HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV)
Stage 1:
• Person becomes infected with HIV
• Few signs or symptoms for many years
• May take 1-9 months to show symptoms
Stage 2:
• Swollen lymph glands
• Other illnesses with or without threatening status
• Weakened immune system
Stage 3:
• Final stage
• Unable to fight infections
• Long sickness, then death
• Causes AIDS
• Is very fragile
• Approximately 35,000 Americans infected each year
Hepatitis B Virus (H.B.V.):
Symptoms:
• Very much like mild flu
• Fatigue
• Stomach pain
• Nausea and loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
• Darkened urine
• Can take 1-9 months after exposure
Facts:
• Transmitted blood to blood
• Causes inflammation of the liver
• Can cause liver cancer
• No cure, very durable, can survive7+ days outside the body
OSHA’s basic Blood Borne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan Guidelines: Please refer to OSHA Regulation 1910.1030C