Quick Reference
Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms present in human blood that can cause disease.
Common Bloodborne Pathogens
| Pathogen | Disease | Important Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| HBV | Hepatitis B | Can damage the liver; vaccination is available |
| HCV | Hepatitis C | Can damage the liver; no vaccine is available |
| HIV | Human Immunodeficiency Virus | Affects the immune system; effective treatments are available |
Routes of Exposure
Bloodborne pathogens may enter the body through:
- Needlesticks or injuries involving contaminated sharps.
- Contact with nonintact skin, such as cuts or abrasions.
- Exposure to mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Potentially Infectious Materials
- Blood.
- Body fluids visibly contaminated with blood.
- Certain other body fluids and tissues classified as potentially infectious under occupational safety rules.
Important: Not every bodily fluid has the same bloodborne pathogen risk. However, Standard Precautions apply broadly because different infectious agents can be transmitted through different materials.
Prevention
- Perform Hand Hygiene.
- Select appropriate PPE for anticipated exposure.
- Handle contaminated linens and equipment safely.
- Never recap used needles or handle sharps unnecessarily.
- Dispose of sharps in approved containers.
- Follow facility exposure-control procedures.
- Obtain recommended occupational vaccinations, including hepatitis B.
Responding to an Exposure
- Stop the activity safely.
- Wash needlestick injuries, cuts, or exposed skin with soap and water.
- Flush exposed mucous membranes with water or saline as appropriate.
- Report the incident immediately.
- Obtain prompt medical evaluation for possible post-exposure treatment.
- Complete required exposure documentation.
Important Considerations
- HIV, HBV, and HCV are not spread through ordinary casual contact.
- Gloves reduce exposure risk but do not eliminate it.
- Post-exposure medical evaluation is time-sensitive.
- Do not wait for symptoms before reporting an exposure.
- Use the facility’s exposure-control plan.
Related
- Standard Precautions
- Transmission-Based Precautions
- Hand Hygiene
- Donning & Doffing PPE
- Occupational Exposure & Response
- Chain of Infection
- Employee Rights
Sources
- CNA Module 4 — Emergency Preparedness & Safety
- CNA Module 6 — Infection Prevention & Control
- CDC/NIOSH — Bloodborne Infectious Disease Risks
- OSHA — Bloodborne Pathogens
Flashcards
Name three major occupational bloodborne pathogens.01-foundations / reference-guidelines
Answer
Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
What exposures may transmit bloodborne pathogens?01-foundations / reference-guidelines
Answer
Contaminated sharps, mucous membranes, or nonintact skin exposure.