Universal Precautions

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST PATHOGENS

WHAT ARE THEY?  The CDC defines universal precautions as a set of precautions designed to prevent the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and other blood borne pathogens when providing first aid or health care.

WHAT APPLIES?  Universal precautions apply to blood, other body fluids containing visible blood, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, pericardial fluid, amniotic fluid, semen, and vaginal secretions.

 Universal precautions do not apply to feces, nasal secretions, sputum, sweat, tears, urine, or vomitus, unless they contain visible blood.

 Universal precautions do not apply to saliva except when visibly contaminated with blood.

HOW SHOULD I PROTECT MYSELF?  Barrier Protection should be used for all tissue at all times to prevent skin and mucous membrane contamination, and should be appropriate for the type of procedures being performed and the type of exposure anticipated.

 Gloves should be worn when there is potential for hand or skin contact with potentially infectious material or items and surfaces contaminated with these materials. Wash hands immediately after gloves are removed.

 Face Shields should be worn during procedures that are likely to generate droplets of blood or body fluids to prevent exposure to the mouth, nose, and eyes.

 Protective Body Clothing should be worn when there is a potential for splashing of blood or body fluids.

 Wash Hands And Other Skin Surfaces thoroughly and immediately if contaminated with any fluids to which the universal precautions apply.

 Exercise extreme care when handling items such as needles, scalpel blades, and other sharp instruments to avoid accidental injury and contamination.

 Dispose of needles, syringes, scalpel blades, pipettes, and other sharp items in a puncture resistant container marked with a biohazard symbol.

References: National Institute of Health: http://www.niehs.nih.gov/odhsb/biosafe/univers.htm Center For Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov/hip/BLOOD/Universa.htm