Purpose
- To provide guidelines for students exposed to blood or body fluids.
- To define the term exposure as it applies to this policy as "a person's contact with any bodily substances from another human being."
Procedure for the Exposed Student to Follow Immediately
If you experience: An exposure to blood or body fluids, such as a needle stick, splash of blood or body fluid onto or into mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, etc.), or open skin, or other blood or body fluid exposure, you must:
- Wash the affected area with soap and water immediately.
- Flush mucous membranes with water immediately.
- Notify your supervisor/instructor immediately after washing and flushing.
- Have your supervisor/instructor immediately notify the supervisor so that the source information can be collected in a timely fashion.
- Report immediately to the facility’s occupational health department or to the Emergency Department. The student's accident insurance may be used to defray expenses related to this incident.
- The supervisor/instructor must fill out an Incident Report immediately according to the clinical site policy. Make sure the brand of needle/sharp is identified on that report. OSHA requires it.
By following these steps, you will receive appropriate treatment at the appropriate time.
Early intervention is imperative. For your safety and well-being, do not wait to report an exposure. Appropriate and timely interventions will begin as soon as you report the exposure. Report blood and body fluid exposures immediately.