Introduction
Overview Topics Park Nicollet Health Services (PNHS) must meet I. Course overview various regulatory agency guidelines for II. Hazardous Substances mandatory education. On an annual basis, III. Healthcare-acquired infections managers and supervisors are responsible for ensuring employees are provided training IV. Bloodborne Pathogens applicable to their job function. You will fulfill the V. Tuberculosis Right to Know portion of the mandatory education VI. Antibiotic-resistant organisms series, including OSHA bloodborne pathogen VII. Infection exposure prevention training, by completing this course. VIII.Your work environment Need help getting started? IX. Your role and resources Click on the Presentation Tips tab in the upper Approximate length right hand corner of the window. 50 minutes
Prerequisites There are no prerequisites to this course.
Questions about the content in this course? • Employee Safety questions: call 952-993-5080 • Infection Control questions: call 952-993-5456
For Contact Hours, click Attachments in the OSHA requires you to complete this course on paid upper right-hand corner and select the relevant PDF. work time. Please work with your supervisor to coordinate this. Head + Heart, Together Behaviors: Employee Safety
Course Objectives: Employee Safety Aligned HHT Behaviors Understand how Right to Know relates to your job. Head: Thinks Critically; Develops Self Describe the purpose of safety data sheets and how to Head: Thinks Critically obtain them. Describe the purpose of signal words, hazard statements Head: Thinks Critically and precautionary statements on container labels. Describe where to find PPE and when to use it for the Head: Thinks Critically job you do. Describe your resources for ergonomic issues. Head: Thinks Critically; Develop Self Head + Heart, Together Behaviors: Infection Prevention
Course Objectives: Infection Prevention Aligned HHT Behaviors Name two things you can do to prevent healthcare-associated Head: Thinks Critically; infections. Develops Self Identify diseases that can be spread through blood and body Head: Thinks Critically fluid List how you can prevent being exposed to infections on the job Head: Thinks Critically Describe symptoms of active tuberculosis (TB) Head: Thinks Critically Describe when you should perform hand hygiene Head: Thinks Critically; Develops Self Identify patient care activities that require personal protective Head: Thinks Critically equipment (PPE). Heart: Focuses on Those We Serve Identify where to access infection prevention information at Head: Thinks Critically; PNHS. Develops Self What is 'Right to Know'?
Introduction The primary objective of Employee Right to Know/Hazard Communication training is for you to know how and where to find specific hazard information
Team member: Right to understand You have a right to understand; this course covers a variety of training topics covered under PN's Right to Know Program.
PN's "Employee Right to Know and Personal Protective Equipment" policy The purpose of the Safety Management Plan is to establish, maintain, and promote safety at Park Nicollet. PNHS recognizes that an effective Safety Management Plan can reduce the number of job-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities by managing workplace safety and health as well as ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
For more information, please refer to Park Nicollet's "Employee Right-To-Know and Personal Protective Equipment" policy. What is 'Right to Know'?
Minnesota Employee Right to Know Act In 1983, the Minnesota legislature expanded OSHA’s standard and named it the Minnesota Right to Know Act (ERTK). To comply, employers must identify hazardous substances (chemicals), harmful physical agents, and infectious agents in the workplace and provide training to employees who are exposed to them.
OSHA: Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) is based on the concept that employees have a ‘right to know’ the hazards they are exposed to. Changes to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard
OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) was revised in 2012 to include the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) worldwide framework for standardizing and harmonizing the classification and labeling of chemicals.
• This means that manufacturers now classify substances the same way throughout the world in terms of physical, health, and environmental hazards. • It also now requires manufacturers use a standardized labeling and safety data sheet format worldwide.
The goal of this enhancement is to improve protection of human health and the environment by providing an internationally understood system for classification and labeling of chemicals. Not only do you have a “Right to Know” about chemical hazards, you have a “Right to Understand” what the hazards mean to you. Hazardous substances
Topics covered in this section include: Disposal of hazardous substances • Hazard classification In the event that you need to dispose • Cytotoxic drugs of a hazardous substance, such as a chemical or a pharmaceutical, follow • Safety data sheet (SDS) the manufacturer's recommendation • Container labeling for disposal. Also you may refer to the Hazardous Waste for Healthcare • Personal protective equipment (PPE) Workers mandatory education course • Emergency procedures on tLP.
If you have questions on topics covered in this section of the course, contact PN's Safety Manager at 952-993-3957. Hazard classification - Physical
Introduction: Manufacturers assign a hazard/danger classification to a chemical based on tests, literature and practical experience. The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) further breaks hazards down into physical hazards and health hazards.
Physical hazards Chemicals that may catch fire, explode, or react in some way.
Types Explosives Flammables and combustibles compressed gases Oxidizers Reactives (with self, water, or air) Corrosives Organic peroxides
Note: In this presentation, we’ll focus on the hazards you may encounter at Park Nicollet. Hazard classification - Physical
Flammables and combustibles:
Safe handling and storage Keep container closed when not in use Do not use near open flame or ignition source Store flammable liquids in flammable storage cabinets Ground and bond containers containing flammable liquids over 5 gallons
Oxidizers are substances that increase the burning of fuels by increasing the oxygen. Examples include: Benzoyl peroxide Concentrated nitric acid Sodium hypocholorite (bleach)
Safe handling and storage Do not mix with fuels Store separately from flammables and combustibles
Note: Oxidizers are generally very reactive. In many cases, contact with combustible material will result in fire. Hazard classification - Physical
A compressed gas is a gas or mixture of gasses in a container that is under pressure. Examples include: Nitrogen Oxygen Compressed air
Safe handling and storage Ventilate areas where gases are used Identify cylinders by name, not color Firmly close valve when not in use Keep safety cap on cylinder when not in use Firmly secure cylinders during storage and use Hazard classification - Physical
Corrosives can be acidic or caustic (base). They are capable of destroying human tissue. Acids can also destroy metal. Acid examples: sulfuric acid (battery acid), hydrochloric acid Base examples: sodium hydroxide (Draino), ammonium hydroxide
Safe handling and storage Store acids and bases separately Do not use metal containers to store or dispose of acids Work near an eyewash, shower or hose
A reactive is a compound that is capable of catching fire or exploding if subjected to certain conditions. Examples include: Water reactives: Sodium metal Shock sensitive: Dry picric acid Explosive: Nitroglycerin
Safe handling and storage Substitute with less hazardous materials whenever possible Store in isolation from other chemicals Health Hazards
Hazard Classification - Health Substances that are carcinogenic, corrosive, irritant, toxic, or can damage eyes, lungs, mucous membranes, skin, or which produce acute or chronic health effects.
Types • Acute toxic • Skin corrosion or irritant • Eye effects • Sensitizer • Cancer causing or cell mutagenicity • Toxicity to reproductively, target organ, or upon breathing it Health Hazards
How do hazardous chemical affect the body? The effect a certain chemical has on the body depends on several factors: • The physical form of the chemical • How the chemical enters the body • The amount of chemical that actually enters the body -the dose • How toxic (poisonous) the chemical is
How hazardous chemicals enter the body? • Ingestion: The chemical is swallowed • Inhalation: The chemical is breathed in • Absorption: The chemical soaks through the skin • Injection Health Hazards
Toxicity (how poisonous hazardous chemicals are) depends on:
Dose: The effects of any toxic chemical depends on the amount of a chemical that actually enters the body
Acute toxicity: The measure of how toxic a chemical is in a single dose over a short period of time • Some chemicals will only make you sick if you get an ‘acute” or high dose all at once. An example is ammonia.
Chronic toxicity: The measure of the toxicity of exposure to a chemical over a long period of time • Some chemicals are mainly known for their chronic or long-term effects. Examples include formaldehyde and cytotoxic drugs.
Both Acute and Chronic toxicity: Most chemicals have both acute and chronic effects. An example is carbon monoxide Cytotoxic drugs
What are cytotoxic drugs?
If you have direct patient contact, you may be caring for patients who receive cytotoxic drugs (also know was antineoplastic drugs). Cytotoxic drugs are used in chemotherapy to kill cancer cells and are therefore labeled with orange chemotherapy labels. These drugs are also used for non-cancer treatments, including Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Healthcare professionals with frequent exposure to cytotoxic drugs may be at risk of developing cancer or showing DNA changes. To minimize these risks, training regarding safe handling is required for employees who dispense or administer cytotoxic drugs. Cytotoxic drugs
Safe handling of cytotoxic drugs
Up to 72 hours after cytotoxic drug administration, a patient may still be excreting some of the drug in their body fluids and is considered to be under Chemo Precautions.
When caring for these patients, the following should be done: • Follow Standard Precautions to protect yourself. • Wash contaminated surfaces three times with soap and water. • Place glassware or other contaminated reusable items in a plastic bag, transport them to the dirty utility room, and wash them three times using soap and water. • Place any linen contaminated with cytotoxic drugs in a linen bag labeled "chemotherapy," then place the bag in a second linen bag. Cytotoxic drugs
Cytotoxic Drug Spills In the event of a cytotoxic chemical spill, Park Nicollet team members respond safely as per the Park Nicollet cytotoxic drug safe handling policy. Spills will be cleaned up by a qualified team member who has been trained to handle cytotoxic drugs.
1. Locate the cytotoxic chemical spill kit, personal protective equipment and other cleanup materials
2. For spills greater than 5ml or for spills on carpeting, contact Security
3. Dispose of cleanup materials in black hazardous waste disposal bins.
4. Send a completed cytotoxic spill form to EOHS. Safety data sheet (SDS)
What is an SDS? A safety data sheet (SDS) contains detailed information for a specific product written by the manufacturer. They are intended to provide workers with information they need in order to safely work with chemical products.
Revisions to the OSHA Hazard Communication standard in 2012 have resulted in a new standard format for all SDSs. You will begin to see all SDSs have 16 sections that are in a specified sequence.
Products determined to be hazardous by the manufacturer must be included in the Damarco SDS database where they can be assigned to your location/department inventory list. A paper copy of a chemical inventory in your department is not required, but may be appropriate in some cases (i.e., Environmental Services, Nutrition and Food Services, etc.). Safety data sheet (SDS)
Accessing SDSs In order to ensure staff has access to current SDSs, our SDS inventory is maintained electronically by an external vendor, Damarco Solutions. Damarco Solutions provides access 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to SDSs. This service can be accessed most efficiently online via Facets.
Access SDSs online by following these steps: 1. Go to Facets. 2. Point to Medical Clicks in the left menu. 3. Click Safety Data Sheets.
To access SDS information over the phone, call the 24-hour toll-free hotline at 1- 877-451-6919. Safety data sheet (SDS)
More information on SDSs
When working with SDSs, contact the Safety Manager at 952-993-3957 or the Safety Assistant at 952-993-6663 for assistance in the following situations: • You are unable to locate an SDS • You are no longer using a chemical listed in your department's hazardous chemical inventory • Your department obtained a new chemical
If you receive a copy of an SDS with a shipment from a vendor, please send it to the Safety Manager at Employee Occupational Health and Safety, Meadowbrook Building, W515. Manufacturer’s labels
The manufacturer's label on incoming containers of hazardous chemicals is PNHS's primary labeling system. Labels on incoming containers must not be removed or defaced.
Manufacturer’s labels follow the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of chemicals labeling.
Components of a manufacturer’s label • Pictogram • Signal word • Hazard and precautionary statements • The product identifier • Supplier information
Click Here for Video on Understanding the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) Label components: Hazard pictograms
Introduction Hazard pictograms on manufacturer's labels alert users of the chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. The pictogram on the label is determined by the chemical hazard classification.
Health Hazards • Carcinogen • Mutagenicity • Reproductive toxicity • Respiratory sensitizer • Target organ toxicity • Aspiration toxicity
Flammable Hazards • Flammables • Pyrophorics • Self-heating • Emits flammable gas • Self-reactives • Organic peroxides Label components: Hazard pictograms
Exclamation mark Hazards • Irritant (skin and eye) • Skin sensitizer • Acute toxicity (harmful) • Narcotic effects • Respiratory tract Irritant • Hazardous to ozone layer (non-mandatory)
Gas cylinder Hazards Gases under pressure
Corrosive Hazards • Skin corrosion/burns • Eye Damage • Corrosive to metals Label components: Hazard pictograms
Explosive Hazards • Explosives • Self-reactives • Organic peroxides
Oxidizer Hazards • Oxidizer (reacts with and oxidizes other substances)
Fatal or Toxic Hazards • Acute toxicity. Label components: Signal words
DANGER • Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. • This signal word is to be limited to the most extreme situations.
WARNING • Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION • Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury. Label components: Hazard and precautionary statements
Signal words on product labels are paired with hazard and precautionary statements.
Hazard statements Hazard statements are intended to form a set of standardized phrases about the physical, health, and environmental hazards of chemical substances and mixtures.
Examples of hazard statements • Flammable material • Combustible liquid • Harmful if swallowed • Causes serious eye damage
Precautionary statements Precautionary statements are intended to form a set of standardized phrases giving advice about the correct handling of chemical substances and mixtures.
Examples of precautionary statements • Keep out of reach of children • Rinse mouth • Do not induce vomiting • Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product Secondary container labels
If chemicals are transferred into other containers for storage or use throughout the day (i.e. soaking bins, sinks, bottles, Secondary label requirements liquid nitrogen dewers, etc.), these containers must be labeled using the Labels for secondary containers must be: secondary labeling requirements at right. • legible • prominently displayed on, above, or Do you need common product labels? adjacent to the container To obtain common product labels, visit the • in a format that is as comprehensive Obtaining common product labels area on the Health and Safety page on facets. as the GHS label from manufacturers
The label must include: 1. the name of the chemical 2. the appropriate hazard warning, such as the NFPA diamond or words that convey the same (flammable, causes lung damage, etc).
Labels frequently contain other information, such as precautionary measures and PPE required, but this information is provided voluntarily. Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes any specialized clothing or equipment worn for protection against health and safety hazards. Personal protective equipment is designed to protect many parts of the body, e.g., eyes, head, face, hands, feet, and ears. • Store PPE where it is easily accessible or used; it should not be locked up. • A red or white personal protective equipment sign (shown at right) should be used on the outside of cabinet and drawers containing PPE. • REMOVE your PPE before leaving patient care or other work areas.
We'll be discussing PPE more on the following page and in the Infection exposure prevention section later in this course. Selecting personal protective equipment
OSHA's Personal Protective Equipment standard requires that employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) for their team members based on an assessment of the hazards in their job.
• This assessment must be documented and employees must be informed on what, how, and when PPE is to be used based on their job tasks. For more information, visit OSHA's PPE standard site. • To meet this requirement a Hazard Assessment for Personal Protective Equipment (HAPPE) Form is available by contacting your HRBP. • Supervisors are responsible for ensuring the completion of this form upon reviewing job descriptions for their staff annually. A Park Nicollet employee is shown Chemicals are one of the potential hazards team members may have handling liquid nitrogen. She is contact with in the healthcare environment. Managers of each wearing recommended personal department are responsible for making sure team members are trained protective equipment including a full to handle chemicals used in the department. Team members are face shield, glasses, and loose-fitting required to participate in required training and to follow these thermal insulated gloves. procedures.
PPE used for blood and body fluid exposure may not protect you while handling chemicals. What to do if splashed with a chemical
If a chemical is splashed into the eyes Click though the animation below to view a or on the skin, team members should: scenario on splashes. • rinse the skin or eye out with generous amounts of water • report to EOHS for evaluation
For more information on how to test and maintain your departmental eyewash and shower, review section H in the ERTK policy.
Departments using corrosive chemicals must maintain a shower and/or eyewash station to be used in case someone is exposed. Healthcare-acquired infections
Topics covered in this section include: • Healthcare-acquired infections • How do patients get healthcare-acquired infections? • Infections that can cause big problems in healthcare What are healthcare-acquired infections?
Healthcare-acquired infections are infections that patients get during the course of treatment within a healthcare facility.
Common types of healthcare-acquired infections Catheter-associated urinary tract infections Central line-associated blood stream infections Surgical site infections Ventilator-associated pneumonia
Healthcare-acquired infections kill more people than AIDS, breast cancer, and auto accidents combined.
We know that simple practices like hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and removing invasive devices are effective ways to prevent healthcare acquired infections.
In this course, you will learn about ways to keep yourself and your patients free of healthcare-acquired infections. What puts patients at risk for healthcare-acquired infections?
• Surgical procedures • Invasive devices like urinary catheters • Healthcare worker’s lack of attention to In the upcoming pages, you'll infection control practices like hand review current information on the hygiene safe injection practices following infectious agents that • Contaminated environmental surfaces are causing problems in healthcare setting (including home care). and patient care equipment • Bloodborne pathogens • Ill healthcare workers • Tuberculosis (TB) • MRSA Antibiotic resistant infections complicate • Clostridium diffcile this issue. They are a growing problem in • Other multi-drug-resistant hospitals and they are linked to longer organisms (MDROs) hospitalizations, costs, and risk of death. Bloodborne pathogens
Topics covered in this section include: • What are bloodborne pathogens and how are they spread? • Examples of bloodborne pathogens • Bloodborne pathogen exposures at Park Nicollet • Reporting exposures–time is of the essence • Infection prevention resources • Preventing BBP exposure What are bloodborne pathogens and how are they spread?
Bloodborne pathogens (BBPs) are microorganisms in blood that can cause disease.
Examples of bloodborne pathogens: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) Hepatitis C virus (HCV) Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Exposure HCWs have become infected with BBPs after exposure on the job. In addition, patients have become infected with BBPs during procedures performed in healthcare facilities.
Healthcare workers who know they are infected with a bloodborne pathogen are responsible for reporting the infection to EOHS by calling 952-993-5080. What are bloodborne pathogens and how are they spread?
Spread of bloodborne pathogens
BBPs are spread from person to person when an infected person's blood or body fluids (BBF) have contact with someone else's blood, mucous membranes, or open skin. BBPs are not spread by casual contact like touching.
In the community, people are at risk for bloodborne pathogen infection if they: • have vaginal or anal intercourse without the use of a condom • share IV needles or "works" • take part in unsafe body piercing and tattooing practices
In a healthcare setting, workers are at risk for bloodborne pathogen infections if they: • are stuck with a needle or sharp object (referred to as a "sharp") that was used on an infected person • are splashed with infected blood or body fluids on broken skin, or in the eyes, nose or mouth Examples of bloodborne pathogens
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
What is HBV? A virus that affects the liver
Symptoms Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting Fatigue, loss of appetite, joint pain Yellowing of skin or whites of eyes (jaundice) Up to 30% of people have no symptoms
Time from exposure to positive test Usually a few weeks
Incubation period (time from exposure to symptoms) Average 2-3 months
Potential long-term effects Life-long chronic infection, liver cirrhosis (scarring), liver cancer, liver failure, death.
Risk of infection after needlestick exposure Up to 1 in 3 if not immune Examples of bloodborne pathogens
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
What is HCV? A virus that affects the liver
Symptoms Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting Fatigue, loss of appetite, joint pain Yellowing of skin or whites of eyes (jaundice) Up to 80% of people have no symptoms
Time from exposure to positive test Usually a few weeks
Incubation period (time from exposure to symptoms) Variable. Early symptoms can occur 2-3 months after exposure, late symptoms can occur up to 20 years after exposure.
Potential long-term effects 85% of infected persons develop chronic infection, putting them at risk for liver cirrhosis and death.
Risk of infection after needle stick exposure Approximately 1 in 50
Special concerns Most common bloodborne infection; number one reason for liver transplants in the US. Examples of bloodborne pathogens
Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV)
What is HIV? A virus that destroys the immune system
Symptoms Flu-like illness can occur shortly after exposure. People may live symptom-free for years before developing cancers or infections known as opportunistic diseases.
Time from exposure to positive test About 6 weeks
Risk of infection after needlestick exposure Approximately 1 in 300
HIV in Minnesota ·There were 301 new HIV diagnoses reported in Minnesota in 2013, a decrease of 4% from 2012 ·Great disparities in HIV diagnoses persist among populations of color and American Indians living in Minnesota ·Male-to-male sex remains the leading risk factor for acquiring HIV/AIDS in Minnesota ·New HIV diagnoses remain concentrated in the Twin Cities seven-county metro area (82% of new diagnoses in 2013) ·Foreign-born (non-US born) persons made up nearly 1 in 5 of new HIV infections in 2013, and progress from HIV to AIDS more quickly than U.S. born persons living with HIV in Minnesota
Source: MN Dept of Health
In 2012, a total of 194 employee Exposure type Number of Percent of exposures to bloodborne exposures exposures pathogens occurred at PNHS. To date, no Park Nicollet employees Splash 58 31% have become infected with a Injection needle 37 20% bloodborne pathogen due to a workplace exposure. Suture needle 20 11% Cutting device 18 10%
Specimen 17 9% Collection (blood, other) Surgical 19 10% instrument IV device 7 5%
Other 11 6%
Total 187 100% Reporting exposures: Time is of the essence
If you are EVER exposed to blood or body fluids through a needle stick or a splash to the eyes, nose, mouth or broken skin, you must do the following IMMEDIATELY. 1. Wash the exposed area. 2. Call the BBF pager (952-231-5223). 3. Ask a department supervisor or charge nurse to help you with the exposure reporting process (which includes completing some paperwork). Your shift supervisor can also arrange coverage of your responsibilities so you can take care of yourself.
The reason you need to report exposures immediately is because preventative treatments, which greatly reduce the chance of becoming infected with HBV or HIV, may be necessary. The preventative treatment for HIV works best when given within a few hours of the exposure. Infection prevention resources
• Standard Precautions and Communicable Disease Guidelines outline routine precautions used with all patients and additional precautions needed for certain diseases and conditions. For more information, review the procedure.
• Other Park Nicollet Infection Prevention Policies found on the Infection Control web page (Facets > Policies > Infection Control). These policies include: o Cleaning, Disinfection & Sterilization of Patient Care Items o Tuberculosis Control Plan o Safe Practices for Injections, Infusions and Multi-dose containers o Hand Hygiene
• Park Nicollet's Exposure Control Plan lists ways to eliminate or reduce worker and patient risk for exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This plan is based on OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard requirements. For more information, review the policy.
• Hazard Assessment for Personal Protective Equipment (HAPPE) form is an assessment which is filled out by your leader. This form designates the types of personal protective equipment (PPE) that will be provided based on an assessment of the hazards in your job. This PPE list is found in your job description.
For more information , review the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard. Preventing BBP exposure
Get the hepatitis B vaccine This vaccine is available from Employee Occupational Health and Safety and it is free to PNHS employees.
Dispose of sharps in sharps box immediately after use Remember, improper needle disposal and failure to safely activate safety devices was an important factor in a number of PNHS employee needle-sticks in 2012.
62 incidents (32%) of bloodborne pathogen exposure at PNHS in 2012 occurred after the sharp was used due to failure to properly activate safety device, device left laying, sharps protruding from sharps container, etc.
Use sharps with built-in safety features Always engage the safety feature. If you do not know how the safety feature works, ask your manger or shift supervisor.
Practice standard precautions with ALL patients at ALL times Standard Precautions is a set of practices including hand hygiene, and use of barriers like gloves, gowns and facial protection. Standard Precautions would have prevented up to 27% of the exposures that occurred at Park Nicollet in 2012.
You will learn more about Standard Precautions later in this course. Preventing BBP exposure
Do not recap needles In the few cases where it is necessary to recap, use a safety recapping device or one-handed technique.
Be aware of biohazard labels Containers that hold infectious waste must have a biohazard label. This includes specimen containers, sharps boxes, red infectious waste disposal bags, and infectious waste containers.
Clean up spills of blood and body fluids! Use biohazard spill kit if available 1. Put on gloves (double glove or heavy duty household cleaning gloves) 2. Wear barrier gown/face shield if anticipate splashing 3. Contain the spill with an adequate number of paper towels, or use the absorbent material in the spill kit 4. Pick up broken glass with forceps, tongs, or tools in spill kit. Transfer glass into sharps box 5. Place soiled paper towels or absorbent material in biohazard bag 6. Use PN-approved disinfectant to first clean the visible soilage, then disinfect the spill surface with a new disinfectant wipe/cleaning cloth 7. Decontaminate reusable equipment used in spill clean-up. 8. Remove gloves 9. Perform hand hygiene Preventing BBP exposure
Use biohazard bags Dispose of materials contaminated with blood and body fluids in a red biohazard- labeled plastic bag. This includes canisters of bloody fluid and dressings saturated with blood or body fluids. • Biohazard bags MUST go into a red leak proof infectious waste bin. • NEVER dispose of biohazard bags in regular trash.
Be sure to understand the process for disposing of infectious waste in your department. Tuberculosis
Topics covered in this section include: • What is tuberculosis (TB)? • The two types of TB • Epidemiology of TB in Minnesota
Mycobacterium tuberculosis What is tuberculosis (TB)?
TB is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. TB bacteria are airborne- transmitted. If someone inhales TB bacteria, they can become infected with TB. TB bacteria usually affect the lungs, but they can infect any body site.
TB disease occurring outside the lungs is called extra-pulmonary TB. Extra-pulmonary TB is usually not contagious.
People who work in healthcare facilities can be at risk for being exposed to patients with active TB.
Click on the picture of the globe (to the right) to learn more about TB in the world today.
For more information on caring for patients with TB, review the Tuberculosis Control Plan. The two types of TB
Active TB
What is active TB? Active TB occurs when TB bacteria attack body tissues and cause a person to have symptoms of TB.
What are the symptoms of active TB? Symptoms of active TB in the lungs (pulmonary TB) include cough, fever, bloody sputum, weight loss and night sweats. Symptoms in other body sites (extra-pulmonary) depend on the body site affected by TB.
How is active TB spread? People with pulmonary TB can release TB bacteria into the air when they cough or sneeze. TB bacteria are then airborne. If someone else inhales airborne TB bacteria, they can get infected with TB. People who share a household with someone with active TB are at highest risk of contracting TB.
How is active TB diagnosed? Diagnosing active TB includes patient history and physical, Mantoux Tuberculin skin test (MTST) or blood test such as T-spot, chest X-ray, and appropriate laboratory testing, including microbiological testing.
What precautions should be used when caring for a patient with active TB? Airborne and Standard Precautions must be used when caring for a patient with active TB. The two types of TB
Latent TB
What is latent TB? Latent TB occurs when a person has TB bacteria in their body, but it causes no signs of symptoms because the immune system is keeping the bacteria under control.
What are the symptoms of latent TB? There are no symptoms of latent TB.
Can Latent TB be spread from person to person? No, latent TB is NOT contagious.
How is latent TB diagnosed? The Mantoux Tuberculin skin test (MTST) or a blood test such as T-spot are used to diagnose latent TB. Most healthcare workers with direct patient contact are required to have an annual testing for latent TB. If you have questions, please contact your supervisor or Employee Occupational Health and Safety.
What precautions should be used when caring for a patient with latent TB? Since Latent TB is not contagious, only Standard Precautions are needed for patients with Latent TB.
Who should get a TB skin test? Persons who are at high risk and could benefit from preventative therapy should be screened. For more information on screening your patients for latent TB, see the Minnesota Department of Health link listed in Resources tab.
For more information on screening your patients for latent TB, visit the Minnesota Department of Health Web site. Epidemiology of TB in Minnesota
In Minnesota, the number one risk factor for TB is being foreign-born.
Country of origin for 2014 TB cases at PN USA Somalia Kenya Number of TB Cases in 2014 Liberia Iraq Minnesota 151 Park Nicollet 11 (5 pulmonary, 6 extrapulmonary)
For more information on screening, diagnosis, and treatment of latent and active TB, visit the Minnesota Department of Health Web site. Scenario: Tuberculosis
Agnes is a 25 year old immigrant from Somalia. Over the past two months she has noticed fatigue and night sweats and an occasional cough. Over the past few weeks, she has more coughing and sometimes her sputum is bloody. She’s also noticed a few low grade fevers and weight loss. When she is seen by her physician, TB is suspected and the diagnosis is later confirmed. Antibiotic-resistant organisms
Topics covered in this section include: • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) • Clostridium difficile (C. diff) • Other Multi-Drug-Resistant Organisms (MDROs) Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
What is MRSA? Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that is resistant to multiple antibiotics. MRSA is concerning because it is hard to treat and it has been transmitted to patients in healthcare settings.
How is MRSA transmitted? • through contact with infected body substances • through contact with contaminated items, environmental surfaces and hands
Who gets MRSA? • MRSA has been spread from patient to patient in hospitals. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) depicted • People who have invasive device are at higher numerous clumps of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Image courtesy of risk for MRSA. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. • Community-associated MRSA can be diagnosed in young, healthy people who have Optional: To learn about how MRSA can affect not had contact with healthcare facilities. patients, watch the Partnering to Heal video.
For additional information on MRSA, visit the Minnesota Department of Health Web site. Clostridium difficile (C. diff)
What is C. diff? C. diff is a toxin-producing bacteria that causes severe diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. How do people get C. diff? People in good health usually don't get C. diff. People who are elderly, have underlying illnesses or who have been treated with antibiotics are at greater risk of acquiring C. diff. Antibiotics put people at risk for C. diff because they kill competing intestinal bacteria and allow C. diff to grow and multiply. C. diff bacteria are found in the feces. People can become infected if they touch items or surfaces that are contaminated with feces and then touch their mouth or mucous membranes. Healthcare workers can spread the Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) Clostridium bacteria to other patients or contaminate surfaces difficile bacteria from a stool sample. Image courtesy through hand contact. Infection prevention practices of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. like hand hygiene, Standard Precautions, and environmental cleaning reduce risk of C. diff. transmission. Additional precautions for preventing C. diff. will be reviewed later in this course.
For additional information on C. diff , visit the CDC Web site. Other multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs)
In recent years, new antibiotic resistant organisms and new mechanisms of antibiotic resistance have been identified.
Examples of these organisms are: • Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) • Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing bacteria (ESBLs)
Antibiotic-overuse is major factor that is contributing to the growing number of MDROs. Despite an increase in MDROs, there is no increase in the antibiotic options for treatment of MRDOs. Controlling the spread and emergence of MRDOs depends on research and development for effective treatment options, antibiotic stewardship, and healthcare worker attention to infection prevention practices like hand hygiene, Standard Precautions and isolation practices.
For additional information, PNHS Multi-drug resistant organism (MDRO policy) Infection exposure prevention
Topics covered in this section include: • Standard Precautions • Hand hygiene • It's OK to ask • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) • Proper removal of PPE • Transmission-based precautions • Safe injection practices Standard precautions: Protect your patients, protect yourself
What are Standard Precautions? Standard Precautions are practices that are used with all patients at all times and include: • Hand hygiene: clean hands prevent the spread of infection • Barriers like gloves and gowns prevent exposure to body fluid
What is the purpose of Standard Precautions? Earlier in this course, you learned that Standard Precautions can protect you from being exposed to bloodborne pathogens. Standard Precautions also protect your patients from being exposed to germs that cause healthcare- acquired infections by preventing healthcare workers from carrying germs from patient to patient.
For more information, view PN’s Communicable Disease Guidelines and Standard Precautions procedure. When should I clean my hands?
To keep patients and yourself safe clean your Here are 2 strategies to help you perform hands before and after patient contact. This includes: hand hygiene before and after patient • After contact with the patient's contact 100% of the time: environment • After touching body substances, mucous 1. Clean hands as you enter and membranes or open skin leave a “patient space.” • After removing gloves • Before invasive procedures and 2. Foam in, foam out. touching invasive devices like IV or urinary catheters • Before handling or preparing medications • Between "dirty" (for example, assisting a patient in the bathroom) and "clean" tasks (for example, administering medication) to prevent cross contamination Patient space = • Before eating and after using the Exam room, cubicle, and area around bed bathroom
For more information, you may review the PNHS Policy on Hand hygiene, fingernails and fingernail enhancements. What should I use for hand hygiene?
Use alcohol hand rub (AHR) for routine hand hygiene. • Apply enough foam to cover all surfaces of skin • Rub all surfaces of your hands including palms, between fingers, backs of fingers and thumbs • Once your hands are dried, you are finished
Use soap and water • When hands are visibly soiled • when caring for a patient suspected to have infectious diarrhea (such as patients in enteric contact isolation at Methodist Hospital). How to use alcohol rub
1. Apply enough foam to cover all surfaces of skin 2. Rub all surfaces of your hands including palms, between fingers, backs of fingers and thumbs 3. Once your hands are dried, you are finished
For more information see How to Handrub Poster from the World Health Organization Hand hygiene: soap and water
Introduction Use soap and water when hands are visibly soiled or when caring for a patient suspected to have infectious diarrhea (such as patients in enteric contact isolation at Methodist Hospital).
Step 1: Wet hands under running water. Step 2: Apply soap and thoroughly distribute over hands. Step 3: Use friction to vigorously rub hands together for 15 seconds. Pay special attention to areas between fingers, under fingernails, and above wrists. Step 4: Thoroughly rinse hands with water to remove residual soap. Step 5: Dry hands with paper towel. If sink does not have an automatic faucet, use paper towel to turn off faucet. It’s OK to ask
Patients and their families are encouraged to partner with healthcare workers to promote best hand hygiene practices by asking a simple but straightforward question: "Did you clean your hands?“
Things to keep in mind as you think about how to respond to this question: • respond honestly and graciously • Reassure patients that it's OK to ask with your facial expressions, body language and words • what kind of response would you want to hear if you were the patient asking "Did you clean your hands?"
An appropriate response would be, "Thank you for reminding me" and then, perform hand hygiene in front of the person asking the question. What kind of response would you want to hear if you were the patient asking "Did you clean your hands?" Personal protective equipment (PPE)
It is important to wear appropriate PPE when in situations where your skin, face, or clothing could be exposed to blood and body fluids. Transmission-based precautions
Introduction
Transmission-based precautions, also known as isolation precautions, are practices needed in addition to Standard Precautions to prevent transmission of certain infectious diseases.
The Communicable Disease Guidelines are your resource for determining when a patient needs Transmission-based precautions. Transmission-based precautions
Contact Precautions
When used When patients are known or suspected to have infections spread by direct contact.
Examples of infections requiring MRSA, VRE, ESBL, CRE
What these precautions emphasize Hand hygiene, use of PPE, and careful attention to environmental cleaning.
Signage At Methodist Hospital, a Contact Isolation sign on the door of a patient’s room means that healthcare workers must use contact precautions during patient care. Follow all instructions for preventing infection transmission listed on isolation signs. Transmission-based precautions
Enteric Precautions
When used When patients are known or suspected to have infections spread by direct contact with stool.
Examples of infections requiring enteric precautions Clostridium difficile (C. diff.) diarrhea
What these precautions emphasize Hand hygiene with soap and water, use of PPE and careful attention to environmental cleaning.
Signage At Methodist Hospital, an Enteric Isolation sign on the door of a patient’s room means that healthcare workers must use enteric precautions during patient care. Follow all instructions for preventing infection transmission listed on isolation signs. Transmission-based precautions
Droplet Precautions
When used When patients are known or suspected to have infections spread by large droplets released through coughing or sneezing and that travel short distances (about 3-6 feet) before settling on surfaces.
Examples of infections requiring droplet precautions Influenza, Pertussis, and Neisseria meningitidis
What these precautions emphasize Wearing a mask when in same room as with infected patients.
Signage At Methodist Hospital, a Droplet Isolation sign on the door of a patient’s room means that healthcare workers must use droplet precautions during patient care. Follow all instructions for preventing infection transmission listed on isolation signs. Transmission-based precautions
Airborne Precautions
When used When patients are known or suspected to have infections spread through tiny airborne particles.
Examples of infections requiring airborne precautions Tuberculosis
What these precautions emphasize In the clinic, these precautions emphasize limiting the time patient is around other patients, healthcare worker use of a mask or respirator when in the exam room with the patient, and leaving the room closed for 1 hour after the patient leaves. In the hospital, these precautions emphasize placing patients in airborne infection isolation rooms (negative pressure) and healthcare worker use of fit-tested respirators or PAPRs.
Signage At Methodist Hospital, an Airborne Isolation sign on the door of a patient’s room means that healthcare workers must use airborne precautions during patient care. Follow all instructions for preventing infection transmission listed on isolation signs. Transmission-based precautions
Contact and Airborne Precautions
Examples of infection requiring airborne and contact precautions: Chickenpox and measles
What these precautions emphasize: In the clinic, these precautions emphasize limiting the time the patient is around other patients and placement in a private or airborne isolation room ASAP. Rooms are closed for 1 hour after the patient leaves and before cleaning and preparing the room for the next patient (close airborne isolation rooms for 30 minutes). Hospitalized patients are placed in an airborne isolation room. These precautions also emphasize hand hygiene use of PPE, and careful attention to environmental cleaning. Team members not immune to chicken pox or measles should not enter rooms of patients with these infections.
Signage: At Methodist Hospital, an Airborne and Contact Isolation sign on the door of the patient’s room means team members must follow airborne and contact precautions. Follow all instruction listed on the isolation sign. Transmission-based precautions
Other Precautions
Other precautions may be indicated when infections are spread by more than one mode of transmission.
When used When patients have infections that are spread through multiple modes of transmission.
Examples of infections requiring Full Barrier Precautions Ebola, Smallpox, Avian Influenza
What these precautions emphasize Hand hygiene, careful use and removal of PPE, and environmental cleaning. Airborne isolation rooms may be required.
Signage Signage will vary according to precautions. Emerging Pathogens
The 2014-2015 Ebola epidemic is the largest in history, affecting multiple countries in West Africa. Imported cases, including death, and some locally acquired cases in healthcare workers have been reported in the United States CDC and partners are taking precautions to prevent the further spread of Ebola within the United States.
Ebola is spread through direct contact with blood or other body fluids of a person with symptoms of Ebola or who has died from Ebola.
At PNHS, you will find current Ebola resources are on the Facets Ebola website.
For more information see MDH Ebola website
CDC Ebola website Know your immune status
Are your vaccinations up-to-date? In addition to hepatitis B, you should be immune to:
Influenza Varicella (chickenpox) You need influenza vaccination every year. Varicella can be transmitted in hospitals by Because influenza can be infectious for up to 24 patients, staff, and visitors. If you are not already hours before symptoms start, unvaccinated immune, you should be vaccinated. Team healthcare personnel can spread influenza to members who are not immune to chickenpox patients and are a key cause of influenza may not care for patients with chickenpox. outbreaks among patients. You cannot get influenza from the vaccine. Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis To prevent tetanus, you need a booster every 10 Measles/Mumps/Rubella years—sooner if you are injured. Healthcare If you are not already immune to these diseases, workers should receive one dose of Tdap you should be vaccinated. Team members who (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine if they are not immune to these diseases may not care have not yet received it as an adult. for patients with these diseases.
Contact Employee Occupational Health and Safety (EOHS) if you have questions about your status. See EOHS Immunization web page for more information PROTECT YOUR PATIENTS, PROTECT YOUR FAMILY, PROTECT YOURSELF...GET VACCINATED! Safe injection practices
Since 2001, at least 49 outbreaks of hepatitis or bacterial infections have occurred in the US due to unsafe injection practices. In these outbreaks, an estimated 150,000 patients were notified that they may have been exposed to bloodborne pathogens due to lapses in injection safety and hundreds of patients were actually infected.
Many of these incidents involved healthcare providers reusing syringes, resulting in contamination of medication vials or containers which were used then on subsequent patients. These infections are 100% preventable.
The PNHS Policy: Safe Practices for Injections, Infusions and Use of Multidose Containers is your resource for how to safely prepare, use and administer injections. This can be found on FACETS.
CDC Grand Rounds: Preventing Unsafe Injection Practices in US Healthcare Settings (2013) Safe injection practices
This graphic displays how hepatitis C is transmitted in an outpatient setting.
Drug Diversion: When an employee steals a syringe containing narcotics intended for a patient, injects him/herself with the drug, and replaces the drug in the syringe with another liquid (such as saline), which is then injected into the patient.
In a multi-state case, an employee was charged with diverting drugs intended for patients and also caused at least 30 patients to be infected with Hepatitis C. (Source: http://www.justice.gov/usao/nh/press/2012/Kwiatkowski.html) Your work environment
Topics covered in this section include: • Harmful physical agents • Workstation ergonomics • Back safety • Slips, trips, and falls • Lockout/tagout awareness Harmful physical agents
Four harmful physical agents
1. Occupation noise exposure 3. Ionization radiation Exposure to high levels of noise can cause Ionizing radiation sources may be found in permanent hearing loss. OSHA’s hearing health care facilities. Team members in these conservation program requires employers to areas receive special education and training on implement a hearing conservation program radiation hazards and are monitored for when workers are exposed to a time dosage. weighted average noise level of 85 dBA or higher over an 8 hour work shift. 4. Non-ionization radiation Lasers commonly operate in the UV, visible, 2. Heat/cold and IR frequencies. Non-ionizing radiation can Tasks that require employees to work pose a considerable health risk to potentially outside in the summer or winter can lead to exposed workers if not properly controlled. heat or cold related illnesses. PNHS Team members who work with Lasers receive Maintenance workers at highest risk of this. training on laser hazards.
Labeling of harmful physical hazards If a physical hazard is present in work environment above permissible exposure limit, PNHS must label equipment or work areas with name of physical agent and appropriate hazard warning. Workstation ergonomics
Ergonomics is the study of fitting the work environment or job task to the employee. Having a work environment properly adjusted to fit you and performing job tasks in a manner that does not cause you discomfort or pain is very important. What can you do to prevent discomfort? Much of the discomfort associated with computer use 1. First, complete a work-station self- can be attributed to improperly adjusted workstations. Studies have shown people who properly adjust their assessment. workstations are more comfortable and experience fewer 2. Next, discuss with your leader health complaints. about ordering ergonomic resources. 3. If you still have discomfort, then complete a request for an ergonomics assessment.
For more information and ergonomic resources, you may visit the Health and Safety site on facets. Preventing back pain
Most back pain is caused by muscle strain, trauma, or spinal deformity. Nearly 80% of all Americans will experience back pain in their lives.
What can you do to prevent back injury? • Eliminate or reduce manual lifting and moving of patients • Assess your patient before lifting or moving them • Use assist (lift and transport) devices • Exercise regularly
For more information, you may review the "Applying Principles of Safe Patient Handling (SPH)" e-learning course available on tLP. Search using the keywords "safe patient handling". This course is presented by the PNHS Safe Patient Handling Program and describes safe patient handling techniques which Click here for more information on should be used in conjunction with safe patient Safe Patient Handling handling equipment. Slips, trips, and falls
Introduction The majority of falls happen from on the same level resulting from slips and trips. People fall when their body is in an unstable position.
Slips occur when there is too little traction between your footwear and the walking surface. Common causes include wet and oily surfaces, spills, ice, and change in flooring surface. The front foot slips forward and the body falls backward upon slipping.
Trips happen when your foot strikes an object and is suddenly stopped causing you to lose balance. Common causes include obstructed view, poor lighting, clutter, and uneven walking surfaces (steps, thresholds).
Step and fall occurs when the front foot lands on a surface lower than expected or when the front foot lands on an object higher than the other side causing the body to fall forward and/or sideways. Slips, trips, and falls
What can you do?
• Ensure good housekeeping. Clean up spills immediately, remove obstacles from walkways, close file drawers and cabinets when done with them.
• Adjust your stride to the conditions and what you are doing. Shorten your stride in wet or slippery conditions.
• Take your time and pay attention to where you are going. Choose your path carefully. Don’t step over obstacles or snow banks.
• Select footwear that is appropriate for your work environment and the weather.
• In low light situations or when going from inside to outside, or vise versa, slow down. Pause to let your eyes adjust.
• Use handrails on steps going up or down.
• Learn how to fall. Roll, protect your head, turn your body to the side to spread the force of the fall over a wide surface.
• Report trouble spots to safety and security. Lockout/Tagout awareness
PN maintenance staff attaches locks and tags to equipment while performing maintenance work. This ensures the equipment is not turned on or energized while they are performing that work.
In the event that you see a lock or tag on a piece of equipment in your work environment, DO NOT attempt to use that equipment or remove the lock or tag. Someone’s life may be on the line. Your role and resources
Topics covered in this section include: • Your role in safety and infection prevention • Safety and infection prevention resources Your role in safety and infection control
Follow all safety policies Team members should be familiar with and follow policies related to their job functions. Look on the Policies page of Facets to learn more.
Participate in training Team members receive safety and infection control training during new team members orientation and on an ongoing basis. Site-specific training from your supervisor supplements this training.
Keep work areas clean and organized All team members are required to clean and organize their personal workspace and make sure work areas are free from items that could be potential safety hazards.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) When in situations where you could be exposed to blood and body fluids, airborne infectious contaminants, or hazardous chemicals, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE includes gloves, gowns, face shields, N95 or PAPR respirators, and resuscitation masks. Your role in safety and infection control
Follow infection control procedures Healthcare workers have the responsibility of protecting patients, coworkers and themselves from infection.
Report concerns Report concerns to your supervisor or use the event category ‘Employee Safety Concerns‘ in the BEST Reporting on Facets.
Report work-related injuries Report all work-related injuries to Employee Occupational Health and Safety (EOHS) within 24 hours of the injury or upon onset of symptoms by going to the Health and Safety page on facets.
Report healthcare workers, patients, or visitor BBFs Immediately report any blood and body fluid (BBF) exposures to the BBF pager at 952-231-5223 (952-231-5BBF). Your role in safety and infection control
Don't come to work if you're sick Diarrhea, fever, persistent cough, and rashes can be symptoms of a communicable disease.
Team Members must: • use good judgment when determining if they are healthy enough to attend work and not place others at risk for acquiring an infection • use EOHS as a resource for questions about communicable diseases (such as gastroenteritis) and work attendance • the employee health clinic offers same-day appointments for a host of common treatments, ailments and conditions. • self-report to EOHS communicable disease that could be transmitted to patients, coworkers and visitors (e.g., chickenpox, tuberculosis) Your role in safety and infection control
Hand hygiene Clean hands prevent the spread of infections. At Park Nicollet everyone who touches patients is expected to clean their hands before and after each patient contact. Park Nicollet's hand hygiene policy states that healthcare workers must perform hand hygiene before and after patient care contact.
Here are two strategies to help you perform hand hygiene before and after patient contact 100% of the time. 1. Clean hands as you enter and leave a patient's "space." 2. Foam in, foam out. Make it a habit to clean your hands before and after touching patients. (See posters in your work areas.)
Know your immune status Are your vaccinations up-to-date?
In addition to hepatitis B, you should be immune to: influenza measles, mumps, and rubella tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis varicella (chicken pox). Your resources
Employee Occupational Health and Safety The Employee Occupational Health and Safety department provides quality care and service to Park Nicollet employees by offering information and tools to manage their health and safety needs at work and home.
Employee Health Clinic Available for same-day appointments. To see clinic hours, visit the EOHS page on Facets.
EOHS Safety Manager The EOHS Safety Manager interprets safety rules and regulations, addresses manager and employee safety questions and concerns, develops safety policies and procedures, and promotes safety activities. The Safety Manager may be contacted at 952-993-3957 The Safety Assistant may be contacted at 952-993-6663
Employee exposure and medical records EOHS maintains employee records containing information on an employee's Mantoux tests, vaccinations, blood and body fluid exposures, and work-related injuries. In accordance with OSHA regulations (OSHA 1910.1020), employees or their designated representatives may request a copy of their employee medical record. Requests must be made in writing to Employee Occupational Health and Safety. Your resources
Infection Prevention and Control
Infection Prevention and Control is your resource for information on preventing infections in patients, visitors, and staff. This department uses current guidelines and research, and collaborates with microbiology, physicians, clinics, and hospital departments on strategies for reducing the risk of infection in the organization. This department is also a resource for information on immunizations.
See the Infection Prevention and Control website for policies, procedures, fact sheets, contact information etc.
Other The following groups also support safety and infection control at Park Nicollet.
Clinical Resource Mentors: Infection Control (CRM:IC) CRM:ICs are a direct link between your department and Infection Prevention. Some of the projects CRM:ICs are involved with include providing staff with infection control-related resources, and working to improve processes that reduce infection risk.
Environmental Safety Committee The Environmental Safety Committee's mission is "to support and provide direction in maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors and to minimize risks to persons and property". The committee meets on a regular basis to set system-wide safety policies and discuss issues regarding safety.
Local Safety Committees Local safety committees throughout Park Nicollet address departmental safety issues impacting team members, patients, and visitors. These committees meet quarterly to discuss safety and health issues, regularly perform safety inspections, and promote interest in safety. If you are interested in participating on your local safety committee, talk to your clinic or department manager. Resources on Facets
Employee Occupational Health and Safety • Locate additional safety information at Employee Occupational Health and Safety's department Web site.
Infection Prevention and Control Service • Find infection control resources at Infection Prevention and Control Service's department Web site.
Access Right to Know policies • The policies are located under the Facets homepage drop-down under Policies. They can also be found on the page of the department that owns the policy.