Bloodborne pathogen

Bloodborne Pathogens are infectious microorganisms present in blood that can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted through contact with infected human blood and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), such as semen, vaginal secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva in dental procedures, any body fluid that is visibly contaminated with blood, and all body fluids in situations where it is difficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluids.

Transmission

Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted when blood or body fluid from an infected person enters another person’s body due to injury caused by needles and other sharp objects, contact with open wounds, contact with mucous membranes, or through sexual contact. The risk of exposure is not limited to medical and emergency personnel but can affect anyone who comes into contact with infected blood or body fluids.

Prevention

Prevention of bloodborne pathogens involves taking several precautions. Universal precautions, as defined by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are a set of precautions designed to prevent transmission of HIV, HBV, HCV and other bloodborne pathogens. These precautions include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection.

In addition to PPE, other preventive measures include proper handling and disposal of needles and other sharp objects, regular hand hygiene, and vaccination against HBV.

Training

Training on bloodborne pathogens is essential for anyone who may be at risk of exposure. This training typically includes information on how to prevent exposure, what to do in case of exposure, how to identify tasks that may involve exposure, and information on the employer’s exposure control plan.

See Also

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• Infection Control
• Universal Precautions
• Personal Protective Equipment