If you’ve been working in healthcare or in a public setting, you’re no stranger to bloodborne pathogen exposure. They’re a serious threat that needs to be addressed if you don’t want to cause a potential virus crisis.
Know About Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure
But how much do you know about bloodborne pathogens? What if you’ve only heard the term but know little else about it? Do you realize how dangerous they are and how often they’re contracted?
We want to help spread the word by providing a guide to bloodborne pathogens. Let’s dive in!
What Is a Bloodborne Pathogen?
A bloodborne pathogen is a microorganism present in blood or body fluids that, when it comes in contact with a human body, can cause a disease or illness. Bloodborne pathogens can be:
- bacteria
- viruses
- parasites
It is important to take precautions when working with or around blood or body fluids to prevent the spread of these diseases. Protective gear such as gloves or masks should be worn when there is a possibility of contact, and any exposed skin should be covered.
Employers should also provide safety training to all workers to reduce the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens from contact with patients or other infected individuals.
What Are the Risks When Exposed to Bloodborne Pathogens?
Bloodborne pathogens pose serious risks to healthcare workers, first responders, and anyone else who may come into contact with blood and other body fluids. Exposure can result in the transmission of diseases such as:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
These diseases can cause severe illness and even death if not treated. Other illnesses that can be contracted through contact with bloodborne pathogens are:
- malaria
- syphilis
- chagas disease
- certain types of meningitis
In addition to the risk of contracting a serious illness, exposure to bloodborne pathogens can also put a person at a higher risk of developing certain types of cancers as well as other infections.
If exposed, it is important to seek appropriate medical attention immediately and report any exposure to work and government agencies.
How to Get Bloodborne Pathogen Training and Certification?
Bloodborne pathogen training and certification are important for anyone who works in the healthcare or medical field. It helps protect staff and patients alike from the spread of infectious diseases.
To achieve this certification, one must learn and complete the necessary test at https://cprcertificationnow.com/products/bloodborne-pathogens-certification-online.
This test is designed to teach students infection control principles and provide information on how to prevent the transmission of contagious diseases.
In addition, employers may require workers to complete an OSHA-approved curriculum to become certified. Once finished, individuals can take an exam to become certified Practitioners.
Things to Know About Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure
Bloodborne pathogen exposure should not be taken lightly. If you think you may have been exposed, make sure you take immediate action.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the safety protocols and guidelines for universal precautions, as well as the signs and symptoms of exposure, so that you can remain safe and healthy.
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