It is crucial for all workers in the medical field, and anyone who comes in contact with blood, know the importance of bloodborne pathogens. Bloodborne pathogens are  pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease. An example of such diseases would be hepatitis B, and HIV. Well trained and knowledgeable employees are crucial for a healthy, safe environment. Bloodborne pathogens spread when it comes into contact with someones mucus membranes, such as  their nose or mouth. It can also be spread when coming into contact with an open wound such as a needle stick, cut, or abrasion. Bloodborne pathogens can be found in blood, vomit, and possibly saliva. 

There are precautions you can take to contain bloodborne pathogens while cleaning up. Blood and certain body fluids from ALL patients need to be considered potentially infectious. So, when dealing with potentially infectious items, certain precautions must be used. This includes always wearing protective gear, never eating, drinking, smoking, or even applying lip balm in an area where possible exposure can occur. Other precautions you can take to keep you, and everyone around you safe from bloodborne pathogens would be: Properly washing your hands, never manually compressing trash, avoiding splashing and spattering while cleaning up, never reusing towels or sponges, handling contaminated laundry with precaution, and ALWAYS decontaminating  surfaces and areas with Betco disinfectants. 

Following company protocol and reviewing company control plan is crucial into knowing what to do when you have came into contact with bloodborne pathogens. The diseases that you could contract are serious, and potentially life threatening. If you believe you have come into contact with a bloodborne pathogen, you must contact your supervisor immediately and contact your physician. Symptoms of HBV include: fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, vomiting, diarrhea , light colored stool, and dark urine. Symptoms of HIV include: consent fatigue, sore throat, persistent fever, persistent rash of unknown origin, night sweats, swollen glands, and mild to sever flu-like symptoms. An HBV vaccine is free to anyone who could possibly come into contact with that bloodborne pathogen, such as healthcare workers, janitors, and more. Always follow the necessary precautions to keep you and your employees safe.