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Bloodborne Pathogen

Protection Against Bloodborne Pathogens

Introduction

This site is presented by James Madison University Health Center to teach the principles behind the prevention of disease transmission. It is intended for use by JMU faculty, staff, affiliates and students. The information is designed to provide a basic understanding of the risks involved with exposure to bloodborne pathogens, common ways these pathogens are transmitted, methods to reduce or prevent risk of exposure, emergency procedures and other pertinent information for those at risk of exposure as part of their job responsibilities. Among those pathogens that may be present are hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV or HCV) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which causes AIDS. If an individual has blood exposure to broken or injured skin, mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth, or by needle stick or other injection, there is the potential of infection with any possible pathogen that might be present.

Training

This training module is designed to provide a basic understanding of bloodborne pathogens, common modes of their transmission, methods of prevention, and other pertinent information.

 

This program is also designed to meet the training requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's  Bloodborne Pathogen Standard,  29 CFR 1910.1030.

 

It is your responsibility to complete this online training and take the test at the end of the training. A score of 80% (16/20) will be necessary to pass this test. You will receive immediate feedback regarding your score, if you do not achieve an 80% you will be prompted as to what questions were missed and you must retake the test. Your supervisor or faculty advisor will have access to the data base of test scores.

Question Link: If at any time you have a question regarding the information in this module or would like to discuss the content presented, you can click on the "?" link located at the end of each page and you will receive a response in 1-2 business days.

 

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS-Why is it Important

One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from exposure is by following the principle of Universal Precautions (UP) also referred to as Standard Precautions. Universal Precautions assume that all human blood and all human body fluids are infectious and should be handled with appropriate protective measures.

Universal Precautions are further discussed in the following document by the CDC:

Universal Precautions for Prevention of Transmission of HIV and Other Bloodborne Infections

Included in the Universal Precautions approach is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), work practices, and engineering controls to ensure safety in all situations where exposure to blood or body fluids is possible. These topics are discussed in the pages that follow. 

 

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