Occupational Exposure and Response

When & Why?

Prevent and respond to exposure to infectious materials, sharps, and hazardous chemicals.

Before You Start

• Follow Standard Precautions.
• Select appropriate PPE.
• Know sharps disposal procedures.
• Locate eyewash stations, spill supplies, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Know how to contact the supervisor and occupational health.

Steps

Blood or Body Fluid Exposure

1. Wash needlestick injuries or contaminated skin with soap and water.
2. Flush exposed mouth or nose with water; irrigate eyes with clean water or saline.
3. Report the exposure immediately.
4. Obtain prompt medical evaluation for testing and possible post-exposure treatment.
5. Complete required incident documentation.

Chemical Exposure

1. Stop exposure and move away from the hazard if safe.
2. Alert the nurse or supervisor immediately.
3. Follow the chemical’s SDS and facility emergency procedures.
4. Use the designated eyewash or shower when indicated; obtain emergency assistance as necessary.
5. Obtain medical evaluation and complete required reporting.

Safety & Observations

• Never recap used needles or handle sharps unnecessarily.
• Dispose of sharps in approved containers.
• Bloodborne pathogens include HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
• Not all bodily fluids have identical bloodborne pathogen risks.
• Never mix cleaning chemicals.
• Do not touch or enter a contaminated area without appropriate protection.

What Should I Remember?

• Exposure → First Aid → Report → Medical Evaluation.
• Post-exposure treatment can be time-sensitive.
• Follow the SDS for chemical-specific first aid.
• Hepatitis B vaccination is an important occupational protection.

Related

• Standard Precautions
• Donning & Doffing PPE
• Hand Hygiene
• Employee Rights

Practice

• Studied
• Observed
• Practiced
• Passed checkoff

Sources

• CDC/NIOSH — Bloodborne Infectious Disease Risks
• OSHA — Bloodborne Pathogens
• Facility exposure-control and chemical safety procedures

Flashcards

What is the first action after a contaminated needlestick or splash?03-application / clinical-skills

Answer

Immediately perform appropriate first aid and report the exposure.

Why is prompt reporting of blood exposure important?03-application / clinical-skills

Answer

Time-sensitive medical assessment and post-exposure measures may be needed.