Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What percentage of exposures to bloodborne pathogens actually result in infection?

Answer: Most exposures do not result in infection. The risk of infection after exposure varies with the pathogen, type of exposure, amount of blood, and amount of virus present in the blood at the time of the exposure.

Question: How can occupational exposures be prevented?

Answer:
For needlesticks:
- Do not recap needles
- Dispose of needles in proper sharps containers
- Use medical devices with built in safety features (e.g. retractable needles)

For eyes, nose, mouth, skin:
- Wear eye face safety shields
- Wear gloves and gowns

Question: I am allergic to latex, and I understand that others I may care for can also be allergic as well. Are there other gloves that can be worn that are as effective as latex as barriers?

Answer: Yes. Non-medical exam gloves such as Nitrile gloves are just as effective as latex gloves as barriers to bloodborne pathogens.

Question: How often must I be trained in BBP?

Answer: Those that must comply with OSHA regulations require initial training, and then annual refresher training (or sooner if a new procedure or protective device is introduced in the workplace). Refresher training should reinforce the initial points, and cover any updated material from OSHA.

Question: Does online training satisfy all the requirements for OSHA BBP Training?

Answer: No. Online training cannot meet all the requirements for your training. Specific job-related items such as work practices, engineering controls, reporting procedures, and vaccination offerings must be handled by individual employers.

Question: I have heard that immediately following bloodborne exposure I should squeeze the wound and apply an antiseptic to reduce the chance of infection. Is this true?

Answer: No. There is no scientific evidence to support this approach.

Question: What specific medications are recommended for use following a bloodborne pathogens exposure?

Answer:
HBV
The Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for anyone who has not previously received the HBV vaccination series. HBIG and/or Hepatitis B vaccination may be recommended based on the source individual's infection status and your immunity level.
HIV
A 4 week course of two medications is recommended: Zidovudine and Lamivudine. A protease inhibitor such as Indinavir may also be recommended.