What are "Universal Precautions"?
Universal precautions are infection control guidelines designed to protect people from diseases spread by blood and certain body fluids. Always assume that all "blood and body fluids" are infectious for blood-borne diseases such as HBV (Hepatitis B Virus), HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) and HIV (Human Immuno-deficiency Virus).
Should Universal Precautions apply to you?
Yes, if you are exposed to blood and other body fluids including:
- Semen
- Vaginal Secretions
- Body tissues
- Cerebrospinal Fluid
- Synovial Fluid
- Pleural Fluid
- Peritoneal Fluid
- Pericardial Fluid
- Amniotic Fluid
When should universal precautions NOT apply to me?
If you are exposed to the following, universal precautions need not apply.
- Saliva (except in dental settings, where saliva is likely to be contaminated with blood)
- Feces
- Nasal Secretions
- Sputum
- Sweat
- Tears
- Urine
- Vomitus
When it is difficult to identify the specific body fluid or when body fluids are visibly contaminated with blood, then universal precautions are ALWAYS to be applied.
How can I prevent exposure to blood and body fluids?
Barriers are used for protection against exposure to blood and certain body fluids.
- Condoms
- Gloves
- Protective eyewear when necessary
Knowledge can also provide protection.
-
Recognize
the
potential
hazards:
- blood and body fluids
-
Know
your
roles
and
responsibilities
for
personal
safety:
- Protective Barriers, i.e. gloves
- Cleanup
- Disposal
-
Be
familiar
with
proper
techniques
- How to clean up blood/body fluid spills
- How to dispose of contaminated materials
- Proper hand washing techniques
How should I clean up blood/body fluids?
- Put on disposable gloves
- Wipe up blood or body fluids with absorbent paper towels
- Place contaminated paper towels in a new plastic garbage bag
- Clean and rinse area with usual disinfectant
- Wipe the surface with a 1:10 dilution of household bleach in water. This concentration can be achieved by mixing 1 ounce of household bleach with 9 ounces of tap water (1:10 dilution). This disinfectant will have a shelf life of one shift ONLY.
- Dispose into the same plastic garbage bag: the cloths used to wipe up and your gloves, removing gloves last.
- Secure bag with tie
- Dispose of plastic garbage bag as per your department's instructions
- Wash hands
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for 5 minutes. Rinse under running water. Dry hands.