Prevention of avoidable exposure of occupational hazards

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Kunle Emmanuel
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Prevention of avoidable exposure of occupational hazards

Unread post by Kunle Emmanuel »

Wash hands before and after contact with each patient and before putting on and after removing gloves.

Change gloves between patients.

Cover with waterproof dressings any existing wounds, skin lesions and all breaks in exposed skin, and wear gloves if hands are extensively affected.

Wear gloves where contact with blood can be anticipated.

Avoid sharps usage where possible and, where sharps usage is essential, exercise particular care in handling and disposal.

Avoid wearing open footwear in situations where blood may be spilt, or where sharp instruments or needles are handled.

Clear up spillage of blood promptly and disinfect surfaces.

Wear gloves when cleaning equipment prior to sterilisation or disinfection, when handling chemical disinfectant and when cleaning up spillages.

Follow safe procedures for disposal of contaminated waste.

Specific measures
This will obviously depend on the procedure being undertaken but may include:

Use of new, single-use disposable injection equipment for all injections is highly recommended. Sterilisable injection should only be considered if single use equipment is not available and if the sterility can be documented with Time, Steam and Temperature indicators.

Discard contaminated sharps immediately and without recapping in puncture- and liquid-proof containers that are closed, sealed and destroyed before completely full.

Document the quality of the sterilisation for all medical equipment used for percutaneous procedures.

Wash hands with soap and water before and after procedures; use protective barriers such as gloves, gowns, aprons, masks, and goggles for direct contact with blood and other body fluids.

Disinfect instruments and other contaminated equipment.

Handle soiled linen properly. (Soiled linen should be handled as little as possible. Gloves and leakproof bags should be used if necessary. Cleaning should occur outside patient areas, using detergent and hot water.)
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Queenet
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Re: Prevention of avoidable exposure of occupational hazards

Unread post by Queenet »

Every year, lives are lost because of the spread of infections in hospitals. Health care workers can take steps to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. These steps are part of infection control.

Proper hand washing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infections in hospitals. If you are a patient, don't be afraid to remind friends, family and health care providers to wash their hands before getting close to you.

Other steps health care workers can take include
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Staying up-to-date with immunizations
• Using gloves, masks and protective clothing
• Making tissues and hand cleaners available
• Following hospital guidelines when dealing with blood or contaminated items
"Changing how the world thinks about nursing".
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